2021 Mas de Gourgonnier Rouge, Les Baux de Provence, France

ABOUT THIS WINE

Vineyards are surrounded by pine trees and the natural scrub (garrigue) of the south. Soils are a mix of decomposed granite and limestone, very rocky and dry. The estate makes its own compost (from cow/sheep manure) and plows between vineyard rows; beneficial herbs are planted to control pests and moderate vine growth.

Hand-harvested. Destemmed and lightly crushed; fermented on indigenous yeasts in temperature-controlled, stainless steel tanks. Aged in a combination of tank and older French barrels. Unfined and unfiltered.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

The Cartier family’s estate, with 47 hectares of wines and 20 hectares of olive trees, is set deep in the heart of “les Baux de Provence” in the Alpilles and has been run by them for several generations ”. Owing to the unrivaled location and because of the long family tradition, Nicolas Cartier and his sons, Luc and Frederi, have developed the production of excellent red and rose wine, awarding them the A.O.C. Les Baux de Provence (Protected Designation of Origin). They also produce a subtle, fresh, fruity white wine and a delightful olive oil. Far from any pollution and having the advantage of a very hot, dry and windy climate, the Mas of Gourgonnier uses biological farming methods, following the “Nature and Progress” laws which forbid any use of chemical fertilizer, weed killer and insecticide. The soil is fertilize only by compost, manure and annual green manure. The plant protection is secured by Bordeaux mixture and sulphur. The grapes are picked up by hand and the method of making wine, called vinification, is traditional. The bottling is done at the domain. All the products of the Mas refer to “Nature and Progress” and are certified by ECOCERT (control body).