At a glance

Producer

Hervé Bizeul (Domaine du Clos des Fées)

Region

Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Roussillon, France

Grape variety

Blend (Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Mourvèdre)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$70-$120 USD

Tasting profile

Intense black fruits (blackberry, black cherry), garrigue, violets, graphite, and spice with evolving earthy notes.

Evolution: Tertiary flavors emerging: leather, truffle, dried fruit. Freshness and fruit still present but integrated.

At peak: Powerful yet elegant with harmonious tannins, layered complexity, and persistent mineral-umami finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-plus, supporting further development.

Tannins

Firm yet fine, becoming smoother with age.

Alcohol

Robust (14.5%-15% ABV typical for region and wine).

Aging potential

Long; 15+ years from vintage in top cellaring conditions.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2022 to 2028

Optimal window

2020 to 2032

Current status

Entering peak drinking window; suitable for drinking now and over the next 8 years.

Current condition

Excellent condition if stored properly; showing integrated structure and developing tertiary aromas.

2015 was a strong and balanced year for Roussillon, and Le Clos des Fées is crafted for endurance and layered evolution. At this age, primary and secondary flavors merge; structure softens but retains vibrancy, rewarding careful patience.

Food pairing

Grilled or braised lamb, roast beef, wild game, cassoulet, hearty Mediterranean stews, hard aged cheeses.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has firm yet fine tannins that will benefit from aeration, allowing it to express its complexity and smooth out the tannins.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Producer uses some sustainable practices: manual harvest, low-intervention winemaking, limited use of chemicals, focus on biodiversity in vineyards; but not fully certified. No formal data on renewable energy or specific water conservation protocols; standard packaging (glass bottle, cork).

Le Clos des Fées is recognized for artisanal, low-yield, and eco-conscious vineyard management, including hand harvesting and careful site stewardship, enhancing sustainability compared to industrial peers. However, absence of certification and limited transparency on broader energy/water usage and packaging means the estate ranks as 'above-average' but not exemplary in sustainability. For a stronger score, third-party certification and data on renewables and logistical carbon reduction would be needed.