Côtes-du-Rhône

The history : The Gras family, from 1874 to the present day, means the men and women who shaped a vineyard, passed on a land, ensured skills would endure and nurtured a love for this place and this countryside at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail. Over six generations this family, which owns the Domaine Santa Duc, has forged close relationships and friendships with winegrowers who had the same approach to working the vines but, at some point or another, no longer wished to bottle their own wines. These experts in southern Rhone Valley terroirs fashioned the Famille Gras range with the same rigorous standards and the same skills, stamping it with their identity. RESPECT is the watchword guiding every decision. These southern Rhone wines are authentic and rich in flavour, combining the family’s characteristic touch of finesse with the power that we expect from this region. Their origins are diverse – Rasteau, Côtes-du-Rhône and IGP Vaucluse – and the terroirs and the parcels are all different, but the philosophy remains the same: an emphasis on organic farming, winemaking methods that are as natural as possible and selections from the coolest terroirs of the region. Thus the pleasure last longer for all, and the Gras family is able to continue making wines that the previous generations liked to drink, in the shade of a leafy pergola.

The wine : In search of a wine combining freshness and minerality, the Famille Gras favors plots located on limestone soils and north facing. Les Grands Calcaires is a blend of the typical grape varieties of the Rhone Valley, offering fresh aromas and acidity.

Grape varieties : Grenache Blanc, Clairette and Viognier bring floral and fruity aromas, while Ugni Blanc, Bourboulenc and Picpoul give acidity and freshness.

Ageing : The grapes are harvested when ripe and are pressed in a pneumatic press. After settling, fermentation takes place in thermo-regulated stainless-steel tanks. The wine is then aged in stainless-steel vats until bottling in order to keep the freshness.

Personality : Les Grands Calcaires is a refreshing white wine with mineral notes, peach marmalade, honeysuckle, citrus fruits as well as a nice acidity on the finish.