Vineyard and winemaking
Acantalys comes from a 60-hectare area around Tavel, including vineyards at Rochefort-du-Gard and Pujaut. The vines average around 25 years old and grow on clay-limestone soils, with the warm southern Rhône climate helping the traditional red varieties reach full ripeness while retaining their savoury character.
The blend is led by Grenache Noir, with Syrah, Carignan and Mourvèdre adding structure and spice. The fruit is destemmed before a three-week vatting, with regular pumping over during alcoholic fermentation and careful temperature control to shape a supple, fruit-led Côtes du Rhône.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Bright garnet red with youthful ruby highlights and good clarity.
Nose
Ripe red cherry and raspberry lead, joined by cracked black pepper, dried herbs and a subtle earthy note.
Palate
Soft and rounded on entry, with juicy red fruit at the centre and gentle tannins providing shape. Grenache brings warmth and generosity, while Syrah and the supporting varieties add pepper, savoury depth and a fresh, lingering finish.
Food pairing
An easy partner for roast chicken with thyme and garlic, Toulouse sausages with lentils, lamb koftas with mint yoghurt, or a mushroom and caramelised onion tart. Its supple fruit also works well with mature Cheddar.
Background story
The Cave des Vignerons de Tavel was built in 1937 under architect Henri Floutier and inaugurated the following year by French President Albert Lebrun. Its distinctive Provençal-influenced building was listed as a historic monument in 2013, a rare distinction for a working winery.
Following the 2018 union of the Tavel and Lirac cooperatives, Vignerons de Tavel & Lirac brought the growers of these neighbouring southern Rhône vineyards together. Acantalys offers an accessible expression of that landscape, balancing ripe Mediterranean fruit with the freshness and savoury detail associated with the Rhône’s right bank.
