This domaine, established in 2001 by Marjorie Gallet, has a very evocative name. Located in Montner, in the Roussillon, it boasts 25 hectares of old grape varieties (Carignan, Grenache, Maccabeu, and Syrah) which exude depth and character. Struck by the Roussillon region’s “violent nature”, and charmed by the diversity of its terroirs, she is forging ahead with her husband Stéphane, motivated by the clear conviction that “nature is fundamental, the place confers its energy to the wine, the Roussillon light brightens without burning”. Biodynamic principles are applied in order to produce wines in her image, “at once strong and elegant”. Although the region experiences high summer temperatures, the grapes remain unscathed. The presence of old schist allows the vines to develop long roots and tap cooler depths. Yields are limited to 17hl/ha, making these wines intensely concentrated. Since 2008, Marjorie Gallet has been assisted by Stéphane and they tend the parcels organically (having achieved certification in 2011) and biodynamically. In the cellar, the aim is to retain as much of the freshness of the fruit as possible using simple but precise ageing techniques. This fine, innovative domaine is definitely one to check out.

This single parcel cuvée comes from Grenache vines planted in 1991 in schist soils particularly good for filtering. The vines are grown biodynamically and the grapes are harvested by hand. They are then vinified in full bunches to retain the freshness and delicacy of the fruit. Fermentation is left to the indigenous yeasts to let the terroir express itself through the supplest of textures. The tannins are silky and perfectly integrated on the palate. The Grenache brings all its flavour and fruit. This is such an easy-drinking wine that it can be enjoyed on its own, though it will pair nicely with a light meat dish. This is a fine wine that doesn’t need to age for very long to reach its peak – try 5 or 6 years!