Domaine Lafage Narassa 2023
The Domaine Lafage Narassa is a wonderfully rich, velvety Roussillon red wine that was actually born from a happy accident. Following the 2014 harvest, winemakers Jean-Marc and Eliane Lafage realised a small parcel of Grenache vines had been entirely forgotten. Left on the vine, the grapes had over-ripened and slightly shrivelled under the intense southern sun. Rather than discard them, the couple decided to harvest and ferment this incredibly concentrated fruit, blending it with high-altitude Syrah. The result was so spectacular that they now recreate this 'appassimento' style every year. To achieve this signature depth, the Grenache is deliberately left on the vine late into the season until the grapes begin to dry out. This natural concentration of sugars and flavours is similar to the famous appassimento methods used in northern Italy. The fruit is hand-harvested from ancient vines anchored in the black schist soils of the Agly Valley. By carefully blending this ultra-ripe Grenache with fresh, vibrant Syrah grown high up in the mountains, the winemakers manage to perfectly balance the luxurious sweetness of the fruit with a bright, energetic acidity. In the glass, this highly acclaimed Côtes Catalanes release is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It offers an incredibly smooth, mouth-coating texture packed with intense flavours of sweet blackberry compote, dark chocolate, and wild Mediterranean herbs, finished with a subtle crackle of black pepper. Despite its impressive weight and richness, it finishes remarkably fresh and elegant. It is an absolute joy to pour alongside hearty winter stews, grilled steaks, or a strong blue cheese, and serves as a magnificent bottle for a weekend treat.
