Château d'Aqueria - Tavel 2024

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

The estate is unique in that it is the only one to extend over both the Tavel and Lirac appellations, covering 65 hectares. Its rounded pebbles on the surface and sandy-clay subsoil produce fairly fresh wines, as the vines suffer less from the heat than in other areas. Tavel contains eight of the nine grape varieties authorized in the appellation, and is a source of pride for the Bez family, who manage this magnificent estate with discretion and wisdom. Tavel contains eight of the nine grape varieties authorized in the appellation, and is one of the prides of the Bez family, who manage this magnificent estate with discretion and wisdom. With its reasonable prices, it is a model for the region. The wines here show tremendous aging potential and develop admirably in complexity, as regularly proven by vertical tastings.

Decanter

About wine:

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

Guide Hachette des vins

About the estate:

In 1919, Jean Olivier acquired the former estate of the Counts of Aqueria, dominated by an 18th-century château and adorned with a French-style park. His son-in-law Paul de Bez completely restructured the vineyard: today, it covers 64 hectares in a single block, managed since 1984 by his grandsons Vincent and Bruno, now joined by Raphaël, the fourth generation. A sure bet for Lirac and Tavel wines.

Guide des Vins Gault & Millau

About the estate:

The Château d'Aqueria dates back to the 16th century. In 1920, it was acquired by Jean Olivier, who brought it to prominence. Vincent and Bruno de Bez now oversee the estate where they grew up, which covers no less than 66 hectares. Apart from Tavel, a renowned gastronomic rosé, the rest of the production, under the Lirac appellation (both red and white), is often interesting.

Robert Parker - Wine Advocate

About wine:

Notes of raspberry, wild strawberry, pomegranate, and grapefruit introduce 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 rest Bourboulenc is a classic.

Jancis Robinson

About wine:

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, but with good structure.

James Suckling

About wine:

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.

Jeb Dunnuck

About wine:

Composed of 50% Grenache (red and white), 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 10% Clairette, 5% Cinsault, and 5% Bourboulenc, Tavel 2024 has a classic bright ruby color and offers aromas of raspberries, dried strawberries, and flowers on the nose, with a touch 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 is equally beautiful. Drink between 2026 and 2029.