Tardieu-Laurent Côtes-du-Rhône Cuvée Spéciale 2020

Tardieu-Laurent Côtes-du-Rhône Cuvée Spéciale 2020

Maison Tardieu-Laurent is one of the Rhône Valley’s leading specialist négociants. Rather than owning extensive vineyards, Michel Tardieu and his son Bastien work closely with trusted growers, seeking out exceptional parcels of very old vines in the historic heart of each appellation. Their wines are made in small quantities, with a focus on careful sourcing, traditional winemaking and long, patient ageing.

The Cuvée Spéciale is no ordinary Côtes-du-Rhône. Produced almost entirely from old-vine Grenache grown near the border of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, it is made for perfume, finesse and aromatic intensity rather than sheer power.

The 2020 offers ripe raspberry, cherry and grenadine, layered with violet, sweet spice, pepper and dried Mediterranean herbs. Generous yet beautifully refined, the palate has a silky texture, polished tannins and a long, savoury finish.

Tardieu-Laurent describes it as a “vin de mouchoir”—a wine so delicate and fragrant that you might be tempted to dab a little onto a handkerchief simply to enjoy its perfume throughout the day.

Serve slightly cool with roast lamb, duck, grilled meats, charcuterie or mushroom dishes.