Nigrine is a tryst of Cabernet Franc and Malbec (mass-selection cuttings sourced from Clos Rougeard and Clos Triguedina respectively), with a balance of Négrette, Prunelart and Jurançon Noir.
Like the domaine’s white wine, this is a true field blend. Emmanuel Bourguignon picks on freshness, looking to harness purity, delicacy and finesse, and wanting to “capture the freshness of the rocks”. In a region where many wines come in at a chewy 14-15%, this chimes in at a dainty 12% alcohol.
Fermentation occurred in concrete tank, followed by eight to 10 months’ aging in oak barrels from Domaine Dujac (aged between three and five years). Bourguignon explains that the choice of varieties, precise picking and rudimentary winemaking technique is, above all, geared towards drawing the most out of his limestone terroir. Even at this early stage, the evidence is compelling.
Tasted at the estate, the 2021 is almost Loire-like in its freshness and detail. Revealing a dense, inviting nose of iris, cassis, sous bois and liquorice, it's medium bodied and compact with a layered, svelte and elegant palate framed by fine, melting tannins and crisp, red-fruited acidity leading to a long, racy finish. As the story unfolds in the glass, it’s the kind of wine you want to spend some time with and then head back for seconds.