Winemaker Notes
Lou Courcardié is the champion bull of the Course Camarguaise, the ancient sport of man against bull practiced in the Costières de Nîmes and the Languedoc. Unlike bull fighting in Spain, the bull is never harmed although those who face him frequently are! Michel Gassier has elected to use this name as an homage to not only these magnificent beasts but his finest efforts in the vineyard and cellar. Lou Coucardié Rouge is about 50% Mourvedre, a variety that Michel Gassier is championing in the Costières de Nîmes for its ability to produce elegant wines in even the ripest of vintages, with the remainder Grenache and Syrah.
Critical Acclaim
All VintagesRating: 92+
Gently rolling hills covered by large, round stones on south-facing slopes, Costieres de Nimes is a substantial IGP zone that was formerly considered part of the Languedoc. Today it is included as a section of the southern Rhone; its climate, topography and wines put it more in line with that appellation. Grenache is its most important red variety, along with Mourvedre, Syrah and Carignan. Half of the production here is rosé.
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.
