Muntada is Domaine Gauby's flagship red, drawn from old Grenache, Syrah and Carignan grown on marl soils in the hills around Calce in Roussillon. Yields are tiny and the wine is only made in vintages that warrant it.
The Gauby family farms around forty five hectares of high vineyards in the French Catalan country, where altitude and the winds spilling down from the Pyrenees keep the fruit fresh despite the Mediterranean heat. Gérard Gauby was one of the first in the region to farm organically and biodynamically, and the estate has planted trees and hedges throughout the vineyards to build a working ecosystem rather than a monoculture. Winemaking is deliberately restrained, with native yeasts and gentle handling.
Despite its origins this is not a heavy wine. Dark cherry, blackberry and wild plum are wrapped in garrigue herbs, crushed rock, black olive and fine spice, with tannins that are firm but finely grained and a long, cool, savoury finish. It rewards decanting and will continue to build in the cellar for a decade or more.
Vintages may vary. Email us at hello@barrelandbatch.com.au if you would like confirmation.