2021 Domaine Labranche Laffont "Vieilles Vignes" Madiran

This Madiran opens with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark plum, layered with notes of dried herbs, graphite, and subtle earthy spice. On the palate, the wine is firmly structured, with dense dark fruit framed by pronounced but well-managed tannins. Acidity is fresh and supportive, giving lift and definition to the fruit while preventing heaviness. The mid-palate exhibits savory notes and depth, and the finish is dry, persistent, and focused on structure rather than sweetness, reflecting both the vintage’s restraint and Tannat’s inherent character.

Domaine Labranche Laffont is a small, family-run estate based in the heart of Madiran, currently led by François Laffont, who has guided the domaine toward a more balanced and approachable style while remaining rooted in the appellation’s traditions. The vineyards include old-vine parcels of Tannat, many several decades old, which underpin the Vieilles Vignes cuvée. Farming emphasizes sustainable practices, low yields, and careful canopy management to moderate Tannat’s natural intensity. In the cellar, winemaking is deliberately restrained, with indigenous yeast fermentations, controlled extraction, and aging largely in used oak, aiming to preserve varietal character and terroir expression while producing structured wines that are more accessible in their youth than Madiran’s historically austere profile.