Domaine Les Foulards 'Octobre' Cotes du Roussillon Rouge, France

Dark berries, violet, and cracked black pepper rise from the glass with vibrant Mediterranean energy. 2025 Domaine Les Foulards Rouges Cotes du Roussillon Octobre is an early-released red built primarily from Syrah grown on the granitic slopes near Montesquieu-des-Albères. Crafted by Jean-François Nicq using natural, low-intervention methods, the wine captures the warmth of the Roussillon sun while preserving freshness, purity of fruit, and the mineral imprint of its rugged terroir.

Product Details:

• Winemaker: Jean-François Nicq
  
• ABV: 12%
  
• Varietals: 90% Syrah, 10% Grenache
  
• Soil: Granitic sand with gneiss
  
• Farming: Organic and biodynamic practices
  
• Harvest: Hand harvested
  
• Fermentation: Whole cluster fermentation with native yeasts, carbonic maceration for approximately 10 days
  
• Aging: Approximately 1 month in used 500-liter barrels
  
• Fining: None
  
• Filtration: None
  
• Added SO2: None
  
• Production: Approximately 25,000 bottles
  
• Yield: 30 hl/ha

Sensory Description:

2025 Domaine Les Foulards Rouges Cotes du Roussillon Octobre opens with expressive aromas of blackberry, raspberry, violet, and cracked black pepper layered with hints of dried Mediterranean herbs. The palate is dense yet lively, with juicy dark fruit framed by fine, integrated tannins and vibrant acidity. Subtle herbal and savory tones echo the surrounding garrigue, while a gentle saline edge emerges toward the finish. The wine closes with persistent mineral tension that reflects the granitic soils and proximity to the Mediterranean.

Producer’s Background:

Domaine Les Foulards Rouges was founded in 2002 by Jean-François Nicq and his childhood friend Bijan Mohamadi in the foothills of the Albères mountains near the Spanish border. After working as an oenologist for the Estezargues cooperative, Nicq sought a more direct and natural approach to winemaking. The vineyards were converted immediately to organic farming, and the estate now practices natural viticulture with indigenous fermentations, minimal intervention, and no additives whenever possible. Located less than ten kilometers from the Mediterranean Sea, the estate benefits from cooling maritime influences that preserve freshness in a warm southern climate. Today the domaine farms approximately fifteen hectares and has become a recognized voice in the natural wine movement of Roussillon.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve slightly chilled at 55 to 58 degrees Fahrenheit in a universal red wine glass to highlight its aromatic lift and freshness. Pair with roast poultry, grilled vegetables, tomato-based dishes, pizza, or Mediterranean cuisine featuring herbs and olive oil. Its lively acidity and moderate structure also make it an excellent companion for casual meals and aperitif-style drinking.