Domaine La Colombette Grenache Syrah

This wine alone is representative of the estate’s location and history. Grenache and Syrah have always been grown in the Languedoc and are the backbone of the Southern vineyards.

On the estate, Syrah is planted on the upper slopes, on what is known as the Villefranchian ridges. These are very acid, clayey gravel soils to which Syrah is very well adapted and gives lively, concentrated wines. The middle section of the slopes is made up of white marl from the Miocene Age. These chalky soils are better suited to the Grenache varieties, which, in this location, acquire the level of ripeness they need to express themselves fully. Puech d’Hortes therefore combines the two main terroirs on the estate : acid gravel soils and chalky marl.

But we have had to learn how to manage these terroirs. Since the 1970’s, the vines have undergone many changes as our knowledge has increased. For example, short “Cordon de Royat” pruning has become gradually more widespread to ensure a more balanced production. We have introduced trellising to provide the grapes with the best possible exposure to sunlight. The vines have aged and the less good ones have been replaced, mostly by vines planted in high densities to provide a higher-quality production.

Puech d’hortes has therefore been a happy witness of all the technical developments that have taken place on the estate. So much so that this “ordinary” wine has become a great one and is now a wonderful ambassador for our products. 

Tasting Notes

While it is young, Syrah grapes bring a more intense colour, aromatic strength and structure in the mouth. The Grenache, less dominant initially, reveals lovely red berry flavours and ensures that the wine will age well.

Region

IGP Pays d’Hérault, France