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

In a few words: Incredibly expressive and unique; a delight to the senses.

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: An exceptional blend of 12 rosé and gris varieties, both international and indigenous, but all of which are fond of the schist/sandstone terroir unique to Laurens. Double Cordon de Royat pruning for low yields of 30 hl/ha. Hand harvested with parcel selection for the ripest grapes in late August and early September.

Fermentation and Aging: Immediate pressing and controlled temperatures. Vinification in steel tanks for 3/4 of the harvest; the remainder was vinified in new oak barrels. Matured on fine lees for 6 months with regular stirring. 1,400 bottles produced.

Notes: Remarkably unique aromatics of white and yellow peach, grey pepper, pear, and hints of cinnamon. Intense on the nose, yet smooth on the palate. Well balanced and fresh, with a nice minerality. Delicious with grilled fish, chicken with morels, or truffle risotto.