L'Agnostique

It is amazing how much quality and deliciousness is available in wines from the old world, in comparison with similarly priced products from the new world. L’Agnostique presents a range of French varietals that over-perform relative to their price point. These are lovely, bistro- styled wines that show well in any setting; they are extremely food friendly.

Most of the different cépages are sourced from near Capestang, near Bezier, in the Languedoc just a few kilometers from the sea, where the constant wind from the Mediterranean keeps the vines and their fruit well-aerated and healthy. Higher sites are preferred overall: both the Chardonnay and the Cinsault for rosé come from cool, north-facing hillside sites. The Pinot Noir is sourced from cooler sites, further north, from high volcanic sites in Auvergne, and from Drôme, which is sort of between the northern and southern Rhone. The Gamay used for the Gamay-Syrah blend (labeled simply "L'Agnostique Rouge") is sourced, bien-sûr, from Beaujolais. As a result, all the wines show very “classic” French character. Harvest is accomplished at night-time or in the early morning hours, to ensure greatest freshness. All the vineyards are farmed under "agriculture raisonée," meaning respect for the environment is at the forefront, and treatments are minimal and only when necessary. About 25% of the production comes from old (more than 40 years old) vines. 

All the wines are vinified under the direct supervision of master winemaker Fréderic Maignet, a native of the Beaujolais area.

The inspiration for the name “L’Agnostique” came years ago from the original cépage, a blend of Gamay and Syrah, which combines the soft fruit of Gamay with the spicy meatiness of Syrah. There are many classic cépages in France - in Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvingon/Merlot/Petit- Verdot/Cabernet Franc, in the Southern Rhone, Grenache/Syrah/Mourvedre/Carignan - but Gamay/Syrah is not one of them. Somehow, the blend works - beautifully - but because of its non-classic nature, the name “L’Agnostique” was coined, and stuck. Gradually the range was increased to include Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and a delicious Cinsault rosé in addition to the original Gamay/Syrah.

These are simple and delicious wines that are not to be fussed over. Take them with a croque monsieur or moules-frites, soupe a l'oignon or roast chicken at your favorite French bistro. Bring them home by the dozen, and make sure to have a couple bottles of Chardonnay and Rosé in the fridge at all times. You’ll find that L’Agnostique pleases all palates and will be your go-to wine for any occasion.