Rivesaltes, 1985 Sweet Wine
L'Archiviste, Vin Doux Naturel, Roussillon, France - Fortified Sweet Wine.
Bottle size: 75cl
ABV: 16%
Price:
£89.50
Description
L'Archivist Rivesaltes 1985 is a rare Vin Doux Naturel (naturally sweet wine) from the Roussillon region in Southern France. Bottled after decades of careful aging in oak casks, this rare fortified wine was born in 1985 capturing the richness, complexity, and character that only time can bring. A truly meaningful and memorable gift, it offers a taste of history and a toast to a life well lived.
Tasting Note
The L'Archiviste Rivesaltes 1985 opens with an alluring bouquet of dried apricot, toasted almonds, orange peel, and warm baking spices. On the palate, it is silky and well-balanced, unfolding layers of caramelised fig, honeyed nuts, tobacco leaf, and a touch of rancio from long oxidative ageing. The decades in oak have refined its richness into a harmonious and elegant wine with a lingering, nutty finish.
Serving Suggestion
Serve the L'Archiviste Rivesaltes 1985 slightly chilled (around 14–16°C) in a dessert or white wine glass to fully appreciate its depth and aromatic complexity. It pairs wonderfully with crème brûlée, tarte Tatin, spiced nuts, or aged cheeses. It also shines as a meditative digestif. Once opened, it can be enjoyed over several weeks if stored in a cool, dark place.
About Rivesaltes
Rivesaltes is a historic appellation in southern France’s Roussillon region, famed for its Vin Doux Naturel—fortified sweet wines made primarily from Grenache and aged oxidatively in oak casks. The unique winemaking process, which involves halting fermentation with grape spirit, preserves natural sugars and allows the wines to age gracefully for decades. The result is a complex, richly flavoured wine with remarkable longevity, ideal for marking special milestones or gifting by vintage year.
Condition
excellent