Domaine Lafage Centenaire from the Cotes Catalanes is a beautifully crafted wine born from ancient bush vines, nurtured between Perpignan and the Spanish border in the heart of Roussillon. The estate, managed by Jean-Marc and Eliane Lafage, has a storied winemaking heritage dating back to 1798 and benefits from a unique Mediterranean terroir, composed of stony gravel soils at the foothills of the Pyrenees. Domaine Lafage stands out for its dedication to sustainable practices and climate-resilient viticulture, integrating regenerative agriculture and innovative water management techniques. The blend-comprised of Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris, and Roussanne-reflects both tradition and modern winemaking, with early hand harvesting to preserve vibrancy and a careful balance of stainless steel and French oak barrel ageing. The result is a wine renowned for its elegance, depth, and mineral-driven character.
Tasting Notes
Appearance:
Pale and bright in the glass, this wine exhibits a luminous clarity that hints at its freshness and refined style.
Nose:
Aromatic and inviting, the bouquet opens with expressive mineral notes reminiscent of wet gravel and crushed rock. Delicate aromas of pear and quince interplay with subtle hints of honeysuckle, vanilla, and white currant, promising complexity and intrigue.
Palate:
On the palate, Centenaire delivers a harmonious balance of rich fruit and savoury mineral undertones. Ripe pear and quince flavours are beautifully interwoven with the floral sweetness of honeysuckle and a touch of vanilla. The wine's texture is elegant and layered, with vibrant acidity maintaining freshness and subtle complexity from carefully judged oak ageing.
Finish:
The finish is impressively long and beautifully fresh, leaving lingering impressions of white currant and mineral notes, ensuring every sip ends on a note of finesse and purity. This is a wine of character and poise, ideal for those seeking a sophisticated expression of Roussillon's mosaic terroir.
