Cotes du Rousillon, 1973 Red Wine
Beatrice- Quinson fils
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Price:
£49.95
Description
This 1973 Roussillon red predates the official creation of the Côtes du Roussillon AOC in 1977, when the region’s wines were still bottled under the broader “Vin de Roussillon” or VDQS designations. The vineyards of the time were heavily planted to Carignan, which provided the backbone of the blend, supported by Grenache Noir and Cinsault, with only small traces of Mourvèdre. The result is a rustic, traditional southern French style that has now become increasingly rare to encounter.
Now over fifty years old, the wine shows a pale garnet colour with brick hues at the rim. Carignan’s hallmark acidity and earthy edge frame aromas of dried cherry, prune, leather, and garrigue herbs. On the palate it is soft and savoury, with the fruit long evolved into mellow, tertiary notes of dried plum and tobacco. Light- to medium-bodied, it emphasises charm and curiosity rather than power, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the Roussillon of the 1970s.
Condition
Good level- Bin soiled label