Winery: Mas Gabinèle
Region: Faugères (Languedoc)
Locale: Laurens, France
Appellation: Pays d'Hérault
Designation: VdP 

In a few words: It is said that it is in the simplest wines that we see the talent of the winemaker. BINGO! 

Site: Nestling in the heart of the Faugères appellation, the vineyards cover just over 23 hectares on the foothills of the Cévennes overlooking the village of Laurens at an altitude of 180 meters above sea level. The terroir is comprised of ochre, grey or blue sandstone and schist soils, which are slightly acidic with a fragile structure. This is a high quality but demanding terroir which naturally produces low yields, of around 25 hl/ha. The landscape is undulating, and the vines are surrounded by natural hedgerows, woods and holm oak forests, cork oaks and garrigue. 

Grapes: 100% Grenache Gris, cultivated on vines over 50 years old. Double Cordon de Royat pruning for low yields of 30 hl/ha. Hand harvested with parcel selection for the ripest grapes in early September.

Grenache Gris is a revelation with regards to white wine grapes from the Mediterranean. This wine offers body, freshness and elegance. The grape itself offers very similar characteristics to that of its big brother, the Grenache noir. However, the berries are much more fragile and need constant attention in the vineyard to ensure that they are well aired in order to reach optimal maturity.

Fermentation and Aging: This grape variety is astonishing. It doesn't choose sides: white? rosé? red? Thierry chose white. He was right, of course. The grapes must be delicately pressed, the must  left to settle patiently, then vinified gently. 

Notes: A brilliant white wine with scents of citrus fruits (yuzu, citron), white fruits (pear, peach) and star anise. The palate is lively in its richness and rich in its liveliness. Serve with oysters, grilled snapper and tomato coulis, skate wings with capers or a fresh goats’ cheese.