A mature, sun-filled interpretation of Vin Doux Naturel from Roussillon. Rivesaltes Ambré 2002 is an oxidatively aged, amber-hued dessert wine where the vintage’s concentration and the house’s classic craft merge into depth, warmth, and elegant sweetness.
Origin & Style
Type: Rivesaltes Ambré AOP (Vin Doux Naturel)
Region: Roussillon, Southern France
Grapes: Predominantly light-skinned varieties such as Grenache Blanc/Gris and Maccabeu (typical for the style)
Style: Extended oxidative ageing; naturally sweet with fresh, lightly saline acidity
Winemaking (in brief)
Produced as a Vin Doux Naturel via mutage—fermentation is halted with grape spirit to preserve natural residual sugar. This is followed by years of ageing in casks and/or larger vessels, shaping the characteristic ambré profile with notes of nuts, dried fruit, spice, and caramelised nuances.
Colour
Deep amber/mahogany with copper-gold highlights.
Nose
Aromatic and complex: dried apricots, figs, and dates, candied orange peel and citrus. Layers of roasted nuts, nougat, a hint of coffee/cocoa, plus touches of honey and salted caramel.
Palate
Full, silky texture with balanced sweetness. Flavours move between dried fruit, brown butter, nougat, and lightly oxidised apple tones, rounded by walnut, gentle spice, and discreet oak. Freshness keeps everything taut; the finish is long, warm, and nutty.
Serving
Temperature: 10–14 °C (chilled to lightly cool)
Glass: Small white-wine or dessert-wine glass to focus the aromas
After opening: Very stable—enjoy over several days if stored cool
Food Pairing
Cheese: Comté, Gruyère, aged Manchego, mild blue cheeses
Dessert: Tarts with nuts, caramel, or dried fruit; crème brûlée; orange/citrus desserts
Cuisine: Foie gras terrine; North African-inspired spiced chicken with dried fruit (serve the wine separately as an après-dinner pour)
Occasion
Ideal as an after-dinner pour, with a cheese board, or as a contemplative wine that unfolds layer by layer in the glass.
In Short
Arnaud de Villeneuve Rivesaltes Ambré 2002 shows southern French sweetness at its best: generous, deep, and charming—with a finely judged balance of sweetness, acidity, and nutty-oxidative tones. A wine that prolongs the evening and elevates both cheese and dessert.
