Winemaker Notes
Before becoming essentially a wine producing business, over the centuries the property enjoyed many different activities including the cultivation of olive groves and cereals, as well as the breeding of large herds of sheep.
Minervois is one of the oldest Mediterranean vineyards. Its soil was indeed chosen by Romans so as to establish the first vines in Languedoc Roussillon. The castle's vineyard is , located in the soil called "Les Serres". The average age of the vineyard is twenty years. The estate grows 30% Syrah for dark fruit and spice, 30% Grenache for roundness and red fruits, 20% Mourvedre for structure, color and deep aroma, 10% Carignan and 10% Merlot for violet and roasted red fruit.
Recognized for its concentrated and sultry reds made predominantly of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah, this western Languedoc appellation is also famous for the charming and delicate fortified Vin Doux Naturel called Muscat de St. Jean de Minervois. The dry rosé and white wines of Minervois are also worth seeking out.
With bold fruit flavors and accents of sweet spice, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre form the base of the classic Rhône Red Blend, while Carignan, Cinsault and Counoise often come in to play. Though they originated from France’s southern Rhône Valley, with some creative interpretation, Rhône blends have also become popular in other countries. Somm Secret—Putting their own local spin on the Rhône Red Blend, those from Priorat often include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. In California, it is not uncommon to see Petite Sirah make an appearance.