Château d'Aqueria - Tavel 2024

Stretching in a single block between Tavel and Lirac, Château d’Aqueria covers nearly 100 hectares, about two-thirds of which are vineyards and one-third woodland and garrigue. Its vineyards are characterized by a mosaic of terroirs: sandy-clay soils around the château, clay terraces dotted with rounded pebbles to the northeast, and limestone scree to the east. The wines combine depth, balance, and remarkable aging potential. Since its acquisition by the Guigal family three years ago, the estate has undergone a profound revival. Under the direction of Ralph Garcin, who also oversees winemaking at Château de Nalys, the restructuring efforts are already bearing fruit. The most recent vintages display greater precision, brilliance, and finesse, confirming the estate’s return to the ranks of the very best Tavel and Lirac wines.

Lightly scented with notes of raspberry and wild strawberry. Lively acidity, a mineral note on the finish that’s slightly salty, with good length. A concentrated Tavel style with a tapered finish. I’d drink it young.

In 1919, Jean Olivier acquired the former estate of the Counts of Aqueria, centered around an 18th-century château and featuring a French-style park. His son-in-law, Paul de Bez, completely restructured the vineyard: 68 hectares in a single block, managed since 1984 by his grandsons Vincent and Bruno. This trusted producer of Lirac and Tavel wines was acquired by Guigal in 2022, thereby strengthening the company’s presence in the southern Rhône Valley.

Notes of raspberries, wild strawberries, pomegranate, and grapefruit set the stage for Château d'Aquéria’s 2024 Tavel, a medium-bodied to full-bodied wine that is round and enveloping, with a structured mid-palate and a long, spicy, and generous finish. This blend of 50% Grenache Noir, 20% Syrah, 10% Clairette, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault, and the remainder Bourboulenc is a classic.

A rich nose with a creamy note. The palate is round, with a comforting hint of alcohol that gradually develops. Quite rich and intense, with good structure and acidity. A dense and opulent Tavel, yet with good structure.

Dense, fruity, and delicate, the nose reveals aromas of watermelon, crushed berries, and sweet spices. Medium-bodied, the palate is delicious, well-balanced, and supple. Lively and flavorful. Enjoy now.

Composed of 50% Grenache (red and white), 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Clairette, 5% Cinsault, and 5% Bourboulenc, the 2024 Tavel boasts a classic bright ruby color and offers aromas of raspberries, dried strawberries, and flowers on the nose, with a hint of chalky minerality. It is medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, with a fresh, concentrated palate and a lovely finish. The Heritage cuvée offers more richness but remains just as lovely. Best enjoyed between 2026 and 2029.