Grenache blend
Joana 2016
La Voluta

Grape Variety: Grenache Noir, Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris

Producer: La Voluta (Jean-Benoit Vivequain and Anna Rubio)

Region: Cucugnan, Roussillon, France

Wild Scale: 4/5

Vegan friendly wine

15% alcohol

Winemaking: Organic Grenache grapes grown on schist soils in Maury were harvested by hand late in the season whilst very ripe. Pressed by foot in whole bunches and macerated for 6 days before pressing. Fermentation with wild yeast and aged in large old barrels oxidatively. Later moved into glass demijohn vessels that remained outside for 17 months. No fining, filtration or added sulphur. 

This Wine: Natural red wine with a strong oxidative character. Made in the local rancio style but in fresher manner. You can expect many layers of complexity with deep and dark aromas. Coffee, chocolate, prunes and nuts! Great with cheese. Only 500 bottles made.

Notes on the Winemaker: La Voluta is the natural wine project of Jean Benoit Vivequain and Anna Rubio who now reside in the village of Cucugnan after meeting on the other side of the world in New Zealand where they were both learning about winemaking. They focus on old-vine Grenache Noir which is indigenous to the wild and rugged terrain between Cucugnan and Maury. The wines are deep and complex, often with some darker elements as JB enjoys playing with oxidation. No cuvée is ever made twice which keeps Anna busy as she makes all of the labels.