Domaine Pouderoux - Maury Hors d'Age 2023
Domaine Pouderoux, established for six generations in the village of Maury, embodies one of the most authentic signatures of Roussillon. Located on the black schist soils typical of the Agly valley, the estate has established itself as a benchmark for natural sweet wines thanks to rigorous cultivation of Grenache and a fine reading of the terroirs. Today led by Louise Tanguy and Léo Hemmer, it continues a committed approach, certified in organic farming and then biodynamics, while maintaining the deep, elegant, and generous style that made it famous. The influence of the hillsides, the tramontane wind that dries the vineyard, and the cool nights that preserve acidity all help shape wines of great longevity. The Maury Hors d’Âge represents the most polished and timeless expression of the estate, a wine built on the memory of the barrels and the slowness of time.
Domaine Pouderoux Maury Hors d’Âge 2023 is not a vintage but a traditional blend, an assemblage of fortified wines then aged for a long time according to the solera method. The juices come from carefully harvested black Grenache, fortified on the grape to preserve the fruit while fixing the natural sugar. They are then aged in old large casks and small barrels, sometimes centuries old, where slow oxidation brings this very particular signature of dried fruits, delicate rancio, and spicy notes. The final blend, enriched each year by new touches from the latest fortified vintage, draws its complexity from the layering of ages and textures. The 2023 cuvée thus nourishes this aromatic pyramid while bringing additional freshness. The result is a Hors d’Âge that is both deep, nuanced, smooth, and structured, where the estate’s experience is fully expressed.
On tasting, this Maury Hors d’Âge reveals a dark mahogany robe with tile reflections, reflecting its long maturation. The nose is intense, blending walnut, dried fig, date, candied orange peel, cocoa, and a hint of roasted coffee that adds a warm dimension. On the palate, the attack is ample and enveloping, with a velvety texture where dried fruits, prune, soft spices, dark honey, and a touch of noble rancio overlap. The balance between sweetness and freshness is remarkable, supported by very smooth tannins and a discreet but essential acidity that lightens the richness. The finish is long, deep, slightly saline, marked by cocoa, walnut, and a touch of browned caramel. Served slightly chilled, it ideally accompanies a dark chocolate fondant, a cocoa and dried fruit tart, a powerful blue cheese, seared foie gras, or an elegant cigar for contemplative tasting.
Grape variety: 100% Black Grenache.
