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DOMAINE YOYO Akoibon
DOMAINE YOYO Akoibon
Regular price
$74.00 USD
Regular price
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$74.00 USD
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Domaine Yoyo Akoibon is a vibrant, natural red wine crafted by Laurence Manya-Krief at Domaine Yoyo, a small, organically certified estate in the Banyuls Cru of Roussillon, France. Produced from a blend of Grenache Noir (typically 60-70%) and Mourvèdre (30-40%), this cuvée showcases the rugged beauty of its Mediterranean terroir. The grapes are sourced from a patchwork of seven distinct plots totaling four hectares, scattered around Banyuls and Port-Vendres. These include young Mourvèdre vines planted on the steep, north-facing slopes of the Col de Banyuls and older Grenache vines—some over a century old—growing on the sea-facing hills of Port-Vendres, rooted in black schist soils. The vineyards, worked entirely by hand and horse or mule due to their steep, non-mechanizable terrain, yield a modest 15 hl/ha, reflecting the low-intervention, biodynamic ethos of the estate, which earned its organic certification in 2008.
The winemaking process for Akoibon is minimalist and precise. Grapes are hand-harvested—often as early as August to preserve freshness—and undergo a carbonic or semi-carbonic maceration lasting 10 to 12 days, typically in stainless steel vats with whole clusters or a portion of destemmed fruit. This technique enhances the wine’s juicy, fruit-forward character. After a gentle pressing, fermentation completes naturally with native yeasts, followed by aging for 6 to 10 months in used barriques—old barrels that impart subtle texture without overwhelming the fruit. Akoibon is bottled unfined and unfiltered, with either no added sulfites or a micro-dose at bottling, depending on the vintage, preserving its lively, unadulterated essence.
In the glass, Akoibon pours a translucent ruby, hinting at its light extraction. The nose bursts with expressive aromas of crushed strawberries, black cherries, and pomegranate, layered with sweet spices like pepper, a whisper of black olive, and a floral touch of violet or garrigue herbs—classic markers of its southern French origins. On the palate, it’s juicy and elegant, balancing a silky, supple texture with melted tannins and a bright, saline freshness that tempers its sun-kissed fruit. With an alcohol content hovering around 13-13.5%, it’s both approachable and dynamic, finishing with a lingering, juteuse (juicy) quality that invites another sip.
Akoibon reflects Laurence Manya-Krief’s journey from a career in fashion to becoming a respected figure in natural wine, her meticulous care evident in its finesse and depth. It’s a versatile wine—perfect as a chilled aperitif on a warm day or paired with grilled meats, Mediterranean dishes, or even a simple charcuterie spread. A darling of the natural wine scene, Akoibon’s limited production and soulful character make it a treasure for those lucky enough to find it. Each vintage varies slightly, but its hallmark is a harmonious blend of power and delicacy, a true expression of Roussillon’s schistous slopes and sea breezes.
