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It's time for Grenache 🍂
10/07/24
A BOTTLE WE LOVE: Vincent Ruiz's 'Prima Materia'
From the new winemaker at Belluard's iconic Savoie estate, a very very tasty bottle of Ardèche Grenache . . .
WHAT'S IN THE BOTTLE:
100% certified organic Grenache Noir from a high altitude site in Gras, in southern Ardèche. Old bush-trained grapes are harvested on the late side here (it’s a relatively cool, fresh terroir) and fermented 100% whole cluster without punching down or pumping over – a very gentle process, despite 15 days of maceration. Aged 8 months on the fine lees, with low-to-no sulfur thanks to the stability provided by a naturally low pH. The result is a structured but lively Grenache.
Vincent Ruiz is a quickly rising star, newly at the helm of Dominique Belluard’s iconic Savoie estate (we covered that here). While based in Savoie, he’s still making négoce wine under an eponymous label; continuing his years of work with Rhône legend Franck Balthazar. The fruit is sourced from the site in Ardèche, and transported via refrigerated truck to his newly named Domaine du Gringet estate in Ayse (Haute-Savoie).
WHY WE DIG IT:
Whether the grapes are from Ardèche or Savoie – we’re just so impressed by Vincent and his talented circle.
It’s a grippy, sinewy, impressive bottle of wine. But, delicately balanced by fruit and freshness. Iridescent magenta in the glass, super fun to drink, and perfect for the forthcoming sweater weather.
HOW WE'RE DRINKING IT:
Put the (lamb?) roast in the oven and cozy up with your pod.
SHOP VINCENT RUIZ
More cuvées in stock:
2022 Vincent Ruiz 'L'Ami Faust' Grenache Noir $40
Dancing between a structured rosé and a lifted red, this whole cluster grenache is as quenching as it is fun to drink.
2022 Vincent Ruiz 'Yseult Mon Amour' Syrah $40
The wine that speaks most to his time with Balthazar, this is a deeply impressive Syrah. Made whole cluster, and though it sat on the skins for 21 days he never punched or pumped the fruit; leaving a delicate balance between fruit and freshness.