Domaine des Costes Rouges
Domaine des Costes Rouges is located in Marcillac, one of the most remote and distinctive red wine regions in Southwestern France. Grown in iron-rich red soils, the wines here are savory, peppery, and full of earthy charm and a signature iron tang. Think of it as Beaujolais’s earthier cousin.
Founded in 1993 by Claudine and Eric Vinas, the domaine began as a polyculture farm with a focus on viticulture, livestock, and vegetable production. In 2007, the estate transitioned to organic farming practices, and by 2012, it received official certification, becoming the only organic vineyard in Marcillac at that time.
The estate encompasses approximately 16 acres of vineyards with soils that are characterized by the red, sandy, and ferrous clays known as "rougier," which impart roundness and finesse to the local grape variety Fer Servadou aka Mansois. To further the health of their soils, the family allows companion plants to grow between vine rows, utilizes green fertilizers, and employs manual vineyard work. Since they're still so small, Claudine and Eric remain the only employees at the estate and do all the vineyard work themselves with the help of grazing sheep, of course.
We featured Domaine des Costes Rouges ‘Tandem’ Mansois in a recent wine club. Members got first dibs, but there’s still a little left to share! It’s showing tart cherry, iron-rich earth, and a touch of pepper spice. Light on its feet but deeply savory, the palate is energetic and mineral-driven, with fine, silky tannins. Serve it slightly chilled alongside anything off the grill all summer long.
