Presentation
Located in Travaillan, in the heart of the southern Rhône Valley, Domaine Le Renard spans 65 hectares, where the great grape varieties of the region thrive: Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault, Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne. Founded in 1986 and managed by Pascal Valadier, the estate practices reasoned cultivation, with a strong commitment to the environment. Some parcels are certified organic, and the entire vineyard is worked without chemical herbicides. The soils are maintained by natural cover crops, promoting microbial life and reducing erosion. Vinification favors gentle extractions, with fermentations in stainless steel and concrete tanks at controlled temperatures, preserving the fruity intensity of the grape varieties. Aging is done in oak barrels for structured reds and in tanks for whites to retain all their freshness. Among the flagship references, Cairanne, an emerging appellation in the Rhône Valley, stands out for its richness and complexity. The originality of the estate lies in its meticulous blending work, creating cuvées where each grape variety plays a precise role, revealing a subtle balance between power and elegance.
Terroir
Clay-limestone soils with loam and rolled pebbles.
In the vineyard
Key vineyard stages include sustainable soil management, tailored pruning, and precise treatments adapted to the seasonal conditions to promote balanced vine growth and fruit concentration.
Harvest
Grapes are hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness and careful selection.
Winemaking
Fermentation in stainless steel tanks with maceration lasting 15 to 20 days to extract color and aroma while preserving freshness.
Ageing
Primarily aged in tank, with a brief passage in oak depending on the vintage to add subtle structure.
Varietals
Grenache : 60%
Carignan : 30%
Syrah : 10%
Specifications
Serving
14 to 16°C
Ageing potential
2 to 3 years
Tasting
A deep ruby red color with bright violet hues. This wine expresses the Grenache and Syrah beautifully, offering fresh red fruit aromas (strawberry, cherry) complemented by floral notes, peppery spice, and a touch of licorice. The bouquet is precise and vibrant, without any excess. Supple and silky on entry, the wine reveals a soft texture with well-balanced acidity. Fine tannins support an elegant and harmonious mouthfeel. The finish is persistent and fresh, evoking sweet spices, bay leaf, and subtly jammy red fruits.
Food pairings
This elegant, smooth, and approachable red pairs effortlessly with Mediterranean-style cuisine. It enhances herb-roasted chicken, sun-roasted vegetable gratin, or homemade lasagna. It also suits a charcuterie board, a gourmet burger, or a beef and vegetable stir-fry. Slightly chilled, it can even be enjoyed as a casual aperitif.
