At a glance

Producer

Domaine Hauvette

Region

IGP Alpilles, Provence, France

Grape variety

Cinsault

Wine type

Red

Body

Light-bodied and Delicate

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

€22-28

Tasting profile

Likely primary aromas of red berries (raspberry, wild strawberry), rose petals, light garrigue. Palate: tart cherry, white pepper, soft and lifted finish.

Evolution: Gains savory, herbal notes (thyme, sage) and more earthy subtlety with 2-5 years. Fruit softens toward stewed strawberry with age.

At peak: 2026-2030: Most complex, displaying harmony of fruit, florals, subtle garrigue, and dusty terroir with seamless finish.

Structure

Acidity

Lively, fresh acidity a hallmark of the variety in this region

Tannins

Light, very fine, gentle grip typical of mature, careful Cinsault vinification

Alcohol

Low to moderate (expected range: 12.0-12.5%)

Aging potential

Best within the first 8 years, may surprise with delicacy up to 10-12 years post-vintage in top cellars

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2025 to 2032

Current status

Not released; pre-arrival stage (as of early 2024)

Current condition

Barrel/sample stage or just bottled; too early to show final profile. Will begin to open up in late 2025.

As a single-variety Cinsault from a biodynamic producer in Provence, this wine's structure and delicate fruit will shine most 2-4 years post-release, though fine cellaring preserves its poise for up to a decade. Cinsaults from Domaine Hauvette, made with minimal intervention, keep freshness and floral clarity but are not built for multi-decade aging.

Food pairing

Provencal vegetable tian, roasted chicken with herbs, Niçoise salad, grilled trout, light lamb dishes, ratatouille. Also pairs with charcuterie or mild sheep's cheese.

Serving

Serving temperature

14-16°C / 57-61°F

Decant

Yes (20-30 minutes) — Gentle aeration opens delicate florals and dissipates minor reduction; not needed if aged over 5 years.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Biodynamic farming since 2003; manual harvest; minimal intervention in winery; indigenous yeast fermentation; no chemical pesticides or herbicides; composting and biodiversity promotion; gravity-flow vinification; low additives; recyclable glass and natural cork

Domaine Hauvette is renowned for its commitment to holistic biodynamic practices, encouraging soil health and vineyard biodiversity. The winery relies on minimal energy, eschews synthetic inputs, and uses eco-conscious materials. Packaging is traditional but avoids excessive weight. While shipping to markets outside France increases carbon intensity, the overall production is among the most sustainable for French estate wine.