Why it matters
The producer
Les Vignerons des Albères is a viticultural cooperative based in Saint-Génis-des-Fontaines. Founded in 1939, it brings together approximately 30 viticulturists managing 40 hectares of vineyard. The range includes red, rosé and white wines, along with vins doux naturels, the French term for naturally sweet wines.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Saint-Génis-des-Fontaines is the cooperative's home village. The two named reds carry Côtes-du-Roussillon on the label, so place enters the bottles through the village name and the appellation attached to each wine.
Wines to know
The range in view
Le Prestige is a 2022 red Côtes-du-Roussillon. Oak dominates the wine, with grilled and vanilla notes alongside truffle and undergrowth. Its palate has firm tannins and pleasant acidity.
Château La Roca is a 2016 red Côtes-du-Roussillon. Copper tinges in the colour signal evolution, while vanilla and light toast accompany very ripe red fruits. The palate combines power and suppleness, bringing toasted wood and preserved ripe fruit into remarkable harmony.