Domaine de Faverand - Carinena 2023
The Domaine de Faverand is located in Mazan, at the foot of Mont Ventoux in the southern Rhône valley, a wine-growing area characterized by a Mediterranean climate and soils mixing sand, clay, and limestone. This young estate of about five hectares quickly gained attention for its artisanal approach and its desire to produce precise and expressive wines, deeply rooted in their terroir. The vineyard is planted on sandy and clay-limestone plots that promote natural drainage and bring finesse and freshness to the wines despite the warmth of the Provençal climate. Viticulture here favors respect for the environment and biodiversity, notably with agroforestry initiatives aimed at strengthening the natural balance of the soils. The estate mainly works with traditional southern Rhône grape varieties such as Grenache and Carignan, often from old vines with low yields. This approach allows for concentrated yet elegant wines, where the fruit remains at the heart of the expression. The Carinena 2023 cuvée fits within this philosophy and represents one of the estate's most distinctive cuvées.
Carinena 2023 is made primarily from Carignan sourced from very old vines, sometimes centuries old, deeply rooted in sandy soils that bring finesse and balance to this traditional grape variety from the southern Rhône valley. These old vines naturally produce low yields and give concentrated grapes that nevertheless retain a beautiful aromatic freshness. The vinification favors a natural approach with spontaneous fermentations and gentle extraction to preserve the purity of the fruit. Cellar interventions remain limited to fully express the identity of the grape variety and terroir. This cuvée is distinguished by a style that is both ripe and precise, where the richness of Carignan is balanced by the tension brought by the sandy soils. The whole gives rise to a wine of character that combines Mediterranean power and aromatic finesse.
On tasting, Carinena 2023 reveals an expressive nose dominated by aromas of ripe red and black fruits, such as crushed strawberry, cherry, and blackcurrant, accompanied by notes of garrigue and soft spices. The palate is distinguished by a velvety texture and supple tannins that structure the wine without masking the freshness of the fruit. The fruity flavors are supported by a slightly spicy and floral dimension that brings complexity and depth. The balance between maturity and finesse gives the wine good drinkability despite its concentration. The persistent and harmonious finish extends the red fruit notes with a spicy touch and a fresh sensation typical of the sandy terroirs of Ventoux. This red wine pairs particularly well with grilled dishes, Mediterranean cuisine, roasted lamb, or aged cheeses.
Grape variety: 100% Carignan
