Rivesaltes, 1956 Sweet Wine

Rivesaltes, Domaine la Cresse, Rivesaltes VDN - Fortified Sweet Wine.

Bottle size: 75cl

ABV: 16%

Price:

£225.00

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Description

Rivesaltes 1956 – Domaine La Cresse, Vin Doux Naturel

The 1956 Rivesaltes from Domaine La Cresse is a beautifully preserved example of mid-century craftsmanship from the sun-baked hills of Roussillon. Created in an era when fortified wines were treasured for their longevity, this Vin Doux Naturel was made from Grenache grapes slowly fermented and then fortified to preserve natural sweetness. Decades of maturation in oak have transformed it into a wine of deep complexity and quiet majesty.

In the glass, it displays a glowing amber-mahogany hue, edged with hints of green and gold — the hallmark tones of long oxidative ageing. The bouquet is intricate and evolving: layers of walnut, roasted hazelnut, candied orange peel, and dried fig mingle with notes of cocoa, leather, and polished wood. There’s a haunting sense of old cellars, spice, and sun-dried fruit that speaks of its long repose in cask.

The palate is silky and expansive, carrying flavours of toffee, molasses, honeyed fruit, and caramelised nuts. Despite its sweetness, the balance is impeccable — lifted by vibrant acidity and gentle tannins that lend structure. The finish lingers endlessly with echoes of burnt sugar, citrus zest, and savoury spice, leaving a refined impression of warmth and depth.

This 1956 vintage embodies the resilience and patience of traditional Rivesaltes winemaking. Domaine La Cresse’s meticulous cask ageing has preserved both the richness and freshness that define great Vin Doux Naturel. Each sip feels like an unhurried unfolding of history — a rare chance to taste the Mediterranean sun captured almost seventy years ago.

A superb collector’s wine, the 1956 Rivesaltes from Domaine La Cresse exemplifies the timeless grace of the style: mature, harmonious, and profoundly evocative of its terroir and era.
Serving Suggestions
Serve lightly chilled (12–14 °C) to capture both its aromatic intensity and freshness. Decant gently to remove any fine sediment.

Superb with caramel desserts, tarte tatin, or dark chocolate truffles. Also pairs elegantly with blue cheeses such as Stilton or Roquefort, or aged Comté for a nutty, savoury contrast. For a luxurious match, serve alongside foie gras or toasted walnuts.

Once opened, it will keep gracefully for up to a month if re-corked and stored in a cool, dark place.

Condition

Excellent

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***Please note this product is manufactured to fit a 75cl bottle (50cl and 37.5cl bottles can also be packaged inside this box).

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