Domaine de la Soleiade, AOC Vacqueyras, Rouge, 2023

The building on the estate dates from the 18th century. Domainede la Soleiade has also a rare water supply that feeds the sunny Hautes Garrigues plateau in the village of Sarrians. In 1850, the vineyard covered forty hectares. Unfortunately, the arrival of phylloxera completely destroyed the vines and the estate was abandoned for many years. In 1941, Monsieur Geay undertook the renovation of the main building with determination and passion.

2023 was a year full of contrasts: warm temperatures at the end of December and beginning of January raised concerns about early budding; a return to normalcy continued until February with relatively cool weather; a persistent drought accompanied by a strong Mistral wind, followed by regular rainfall until the end of June. Thanks to constant vigilance in the vineyards, the berries were healthy and well-ripened when harvest started, promising one of the finest vintages of the past decade.

The old Grenache vines take advantage of an outstanding claylimestone soil with river stones and a very sunny microclimate.

Grapes from this fine terroir are entirely hand picked and then sorted to retain only the healthiest, ripest ones. Our cellar master makes sure to bring out the best of these grapes, fermenting them in stainless steel vats at carefully controlled temperatures to lock in the fresh, fruity aromas.