2019 Vacqueyras Le Mourre de la Caille

Elisabeth and Philippe Bernard represent the fifth generation at Domaine La Ligière. They tend to 60 hectares of vineyards spanning across the appellations of Vacqueyras, Beaumes de Venise and Côtes du Rhône. For decades, they were part of a local cooperative before a dispute over a move towards organic practices led to their independence in 2008. Organic certification was granted in 2011, and today, they even incorporate biodynamic practices. Within the Vacqueyras appellation, they own 33 hectares of vines, primarily situated on the Plateau des Garrigues and around one hectare on Fumitarde. In addition to their white Vacqueyras Le Chemin Blanc, they produce up to four distinct red cuvées when vintage conditions permit. The Vacqueyras Le Mourre de la Caille is their approachable offering, with an average annual production of around 20,000 bottles. Typically, this blend consists of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre. A comparative tasting of eight vintages dating back to 2012 revealed that this entry-level red offers excellent balance and often a refined structure. Depending on the vintage, I recommend enjoying these wines within six to ten years. The 6,000 bottle cuvée Fumitarde features about 20% Syrah, aged up to four months in old oak barriques. Compared to Le Mourre de la Caille, Fumitarde displays a firmer structure and more fleshiness, with a slightly extended drinking window. In 2020, the winery introduced a new, so far one-off, 6,000 bottle cuvée Naturalis, which is made without any added sulfur. The blend comprises 60% Grenache and a substantial 40% Mourvèdre, giving it a more earthy character with firmer tannins. Of all their red offerings, this cuvée is best consumed sooner rather than later, with a drinking window of up to five years. At the pinnacle of their quality hierarchy stands the 3,000 bottle cuvée .G, fermented entirely with whole clusters. This wine typically includes up to 98% Grenache from vines over 70 years old and a drop of Syrah. It is supple, layered and framed by velvety tannins, offering exceptional quality for its moderate price and the ability to age for up to ten years or more.