A mature, sun-drenched expression of Vin Doux Naturel from Roussillon
Rivesaltes Ambré 2005 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: Oxidative ageing, amber/mahogany colour, naturally sweet with fresh acidity
Winemaking (in brief)
Produced as a Vin Doux Naturel via mutage—fermentation is halted by the addition of grape spirit to preserve natural residual sugar. This is followed by long, oxidative ageing in cask and/or larger vessels, developing classic notes of nuts, dried fruit, spice, and caramelised nuances.
Colour
Deep amber/mahogany with copper-golden highlights.
Nose
Aromatic and complex: dried apricots, figs, and dates, orange peel and candied citrus. Layers of roasted nuts, praline, a hint of coffee/cocoa, plus honey and salted caramel.
Palate
Full and silky texture with balanced sweetness. Flavours shift between dried fruit, nougat, brown butter, and lightly oxidised apple tones, rounded by walnut, spice, and discreet oak. Freshness keeps everything taut, and 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 aromatics
Stability after opening: Very stable—enjoy over several days if stored cool
Food Pairing
Cheese: Comté, Gruyère, aged Manchego, mildly salty blue cheeses
Dessert: Tarts with nuts, caramel, or dried fruit; crème brûlée; orange-/citrus-based desserts
Cuisine: Foie gras terrine; Moroccan-inspired spiced chicken with dried fruit (serve the wine separately as an apéritif/digestif)
Occasion
Perfect as an after-dinner pour, for a cheese board, or as a meditative wine that unfolds layer by layer in the glass.
In Short
Arnaud de Villeneuve Rivesaltes Ambré 2005 is classic southern French sweet wine at its best: generous, deep, and charming—with a rare, elegant balance of sweetness, acidity, and nutty-oxidative nuances. A wine that prolongs the evening and elevates both cheese and dessert.
