Licence IV Rouge, Rhone, France

Fresh black cherry, wild raspberry, licorice, and thyme aromas introduce the 2024 Licence IV Rouge with effortless charm and vibrant personality. Produced entirely from organically grown Cinsault, this light and energetic Vin de France captures the relaxed spirit of the traditional French café, where good wine is simply poured, shared, and enjoyed. Bright fruit, minimal intervention, and remarkable drinkability make it an authentic everyday red that celebrates conviviality above all else.

Product Details:

• Owner & Winemaker: Gregory Castells
• Grapes: 100% Cinsault
• Farming: Certified organic
• Vineyard Source: Siran, Hérault IGP
• Soil: Clay and limestone
• Vine Training: Gobelet-trained vines
• Grower: Single organically certified grower farming since 1978
• Fermentation: Native yeast fermentation in temperature-controlled vats following destemming
• Closure: Screw cap
• ABV: 12.5%

Sensory Description:

Brilliant ruby in the glass, the wine opens with expressive aromas of black cherry, raspberry, fresh herbs, licorice, and wild thyme. The palate is juicy, supple, and fruit-driven, delivering vibrant red and black berry flavours with subtle spice and a gentle savoury edge. Soft tannins and lively acidity keep the wine fresh and balanced, leading to a clean, refreshing finish that encourages another glass.

Winemaker’s Background:

Licence IV takes its name from the iconic permit displayed in cafés, restaurants, hotels, and bars throughout France, authorising the sale of alcoholic beverages. Created by Gregory Castells, the project draws inspiration from his childhood spent behind his parents' bar in southern France, where wine was a simple, everyday part of community life. Produced from organically farmed vineyards with minimal intervention, Licence IV celebrates honest, approachable wines that place enjoyment, friendship, and authenticity ahead of formality.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 16 degrees Celsius in a medium-sized red wine glass. Pair with charcuterie, roast chicken, grilled sausages, wood-fired pizza, burgers, picnic fare, roasted vegetables, or enjoy casually with friends as an apéritif.