At a glance

Producer

Domaine des Ardoisières

Region

Savoie, France

Grape variety

Mondeuse

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$30

Tasting profile

Red berries, peppery spice, earthy mineral notes, subtle floral hints

Evolution: More pronounced tertiary notes of forest floor and leather with age

At peak: Integrated earthiness with refined fruit and soft, elegant tannins

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, crisp

Tannins

Moderate, supple

Alcohol

13.0%-13.5%

Aging potential

8-12 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2020 to 2026

Optimal window

2018 to 2028

Current status

Approaching mid-maturity

Current condition

Balanced fruit and moderate tannins with earthiness emerging

The 2015 vintage in Savoie was ripe and balanced, producing a medium-bodied, structured red with enough acidity and tannin to age gracefully for a decade. The wine's moderate price and artisan production suggest moderate but genuine aging ability.

Food pairing

Ideal with charcuterie, grilled pork, mushroom dishes, and Savoyard mountain cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

15-17°C / 59-63°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To soften moderate tannins and allow aromatic complexity to develop

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Low-impact farming, use of natural cover crops, reduced chemical use, manual harvesting

Domaine des Ardoisières employs sustainable farming techniques common in small Savoie estates, focusing on soil health and biodiversity. Packaging is moderate weight glass with standard cork closure. The local terroir minimizes transport emissions for domestic consumption, though exports increase footprint slightly.