
Domaine Sainte Barbe’s 1960 and 1970 Rivesaltes are textbook examples of long-aged, oxidative Roussillon vins doux naturels, offering exceptional value relative to age and provenance. The estate, now run by Laurent Maynadier, traces its roots back to 1790 and has remained family-owned since, farming 15 hectares near Fitou on clay-limestone soils. Grapes for these fortified wines—primarily Grenache Blanc and Grenache Gris—were harvested manually, fermented traditionally, and fortified with neutral spirit before aging in old oak casks for an extended period. Both vintages benefited from stable Mediterranean growing seasons, producing wines with the structure and balance required for extended élevage. Bottled from single barrels, they offer concentrated profiles of walnut, dried fig, tobacco, and lifted acidity, with the 1960 showing more tertiary depth and the 1970 retaining brighter citrus peel and spice. These are rare wines with proven longevity, perfect for those who enjoy fortified wines and historic bottlings without a big price tag.
1970 Domaine Sainte Barbe Rivesaltes
1970 Domaine Sainte Barbe Rivesaltes
Domaine Sainte Barbe’s 1960 and 1970 Rivesaltes are textbook examples of long-aged, oxidative Roussillon vins doux naturels, offering exceptional value relative to age and provenance. The estate, now run by Laurent Maynadier, traces its roots back to 1790 and has remained family-owned since, farming 15 hectares near Fitou on clay-limestone soils. Grapes for these fortified wines—primarily Grenache Blanc and Grenache Gris—were harvested manually, fermented traditionally, and fortified with neutral spirit before aging in old oak casks for an extended period. Both vintages benefited from stable Mediterranean growing seasons, producing wines with the structure and balance required for extended élevage. Bottled from single barrels, they offer concentrated profiles of walnut, dried fig, tobacco, and lifted acidity, with the 1960 showing more tertiary depth and the 1970 retaining brighter citrus peel and spice. These are rare wines with proven longevity, perfect for those who enjoy fortified wines and historic bottlings without a big price tag.