After a spell visiting the Portuguese Vinho Verde region and its deliciously crisp whites and fresh reds, we’re driving back up north, stopping for a bit in the Languedoc-Roussillon. This is the first of a series of missives about the region we’ll be sending your way, I hope you enjoy the trip.
This part of France is for me (Nic) one of the most exciting wine places in the world, especially in the last 5-10 years. And I feel it might be somewhat overlooked under a general “French wine isn’t IN right now” vibe (more on that another time).
It’s a big old region, bursting with history (which of course involves some English contribution), culture and gastronomy. Stretching from the Mediterranean coast from Perpignan to Montpellier, the Pyrenees and Spain to the south and further inland towards Carcassonne. I mean, if you wanted a proper trip encompassing medieval history, gorgeous hikes and superb gastronomy, you can’t really get much better.
Why is it such a good place for wine though? Diversity of landscapes, diversity of climates (maritime to continental) with good sunshine, less legal restrictions which has fostered a very innovative mindset… all that leading to basically most grapes you know about being grown there, contributing to a vivid rainbow of wine styles. AND… often for very good value. What’s not to like?
So with that in mind, our first stop is Domaine Gayda. We’ve mentioned them before, but we use their story and their wines as the hub from which to go out and explore the region. You might have read Kate’s passionate blog on the philosophical synergies between our two businesses, this is my take focusing on the more epicurean angle.
From a pure wine perspective, these guys are totally in line with the sort of things we look for:
- Strong sustainable and environmental values,
- Excellent value for money,
- High winemaking standards and
- Great commercial appeal.
They have an incredible property with a collection of stunning vineyards. They have super old plots in a vineyard area called La Liviniere which is truly a magical place. You can feel it when you’re there, overlooking the Plateau of the Corbieres. And they have a very talented team. Vincent is the chief winemaker there and, you know when you meet someone and you think “this is a special person”? That’s Vincent. He’s on another level. The things happening in this brain, I can’t describe… but I sure can taste.
Here are a couple of my favs:
Domaine Gayda, La Minuette Rose 2024
Our new Rosé by the glass, the Minuette, is everything I love in the style. A clean, well-defined fruitiness, a little bit of body, and a fresh, thirst-quenching acidity. Tick, tick, tick.
Domaine Gayda, Sphere Viognier 2024
The Sphere Viognier is one of the most satisfyingly drinkable white in our range I’d say. Fresh and fruity with peach, apricot and a Pink Lady zing, generous and vivid, amazing value for money.
Domaine Gayda, Sphere Pinot Noir 2024
The Sphere Pinot Noir is brand new in the range and delivers so much flavour and purity, fresh raspberries and strawberries, some miso umami notes underneath the fruit, medium acidity… true to the style of the grape for... £13?!
Domaine Gayda, Le Chemin de Moscou 2022
But really, and with the colder months pointing their nose, I have to give a special mention to the Chemin de Moscou. Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, 20 months in oak then barrel selection. This is a cuddle of a wine, soft, smooth, bursting with luscious red and dark fruits, a little spice, very subtle toast, long juicy finish… What a star!
We have more wines from their range, and some new ones we will bring in in time for the winter so feel free to explore and ping us a message if you want to find out more.
Next week, I’ll introduce two more producers from different parts of the region, doing incredible work too.
Happy drinking (in moderation please).
Nic, Wine Buyer, Reserve
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