From a minuscule one hectare vineyard in the heart of the Languedoc comes this most unusual and profound red from Murielle and Laurent Girault. As you might recall from my last 2 posts on Domaine Begude, Laurent is the vineyard manager/winemaker at Domaine Begude.
hovering at around 1200 bottles: a.k.a. micro-volumes
In addition to his full-time responsabilities at Begude (as well as being a husband and dad) Laurent spends many of his weekends at a small Languedoc vineyard site not far from the town of Pezenas (about a 90 minute drive from Limoux). It is here that Laurent tends the vines that ultimately yield the fruits of his labor and love. Both a red and a white are produced, and both from a veritable field blend of organically grown grapes.
Laurent Girault (photo courtesy of Domaine Begude)
The Giroflet rouge is composed 15 different varietals all co-planted in 1925. Along with Grenache, Cinsault, Carignan and Syrah, you’ll find more ancient varietals like Aramon and Grand Noir de la Calmette.
more factoids…
Wine/Producer: Murielle & Laurent Girault
Composition: 15 varietals (Grenache, Cinsault, Carignan, Syrah..)
Vintage: 2006
Country: France
Region: Languedoc
Sub-Region: Pézenas
Geology/Soil: Sand / Clay / Chalk
Alcohol: 14.5%
Importer: Premier Wines (available exclusively at K&L Wine Merchants)
US Retail: $20
Total Production: 1200 bottles (100 cases)
Harvesting is done by hand to ensure optimal ripeness (although never at the expese of acidity) and undamaged fruit. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel, with only natural yeasts being utilized. After primary fermentation the wine undergoes 24 months of elevage in older wood to develop addtional complexity and nuance. The Giroflet rouge is neither fined nor filtered.
Grilled tri-tip and 2006 Giroflet rouge
Gorgeous nuances of dark red fruits, baking spices and garrigue come to mind. The Giroflet rouge is a red to contemplate with a selection of fine cow or sheeps milk cheeses, or to enjoy with a garlic crusted roast leg of lamb or the grilled tri-tip and summer salad pictured above!
Projet Giroflet is truly a labour of love for those of us who appreciate hand-crafted artisanal wine from all corners of the world. Thank you Murielle and Laurent, and please, carry on!
Next: The lost vineyards of Les Clos Perdus
Lovely wine. Please continue to buy Giroflet vintages for K&L.
Absolutely! Another (small) shipment is on the water right now. thanks!