The Estate
The Domaine Les Creisses was founded in the 1990s by Claude and Catherine Gros. However, the history of the estate took a new direction with the arrival of Philippe Chesnelong, who, in collaboration with Louis Mitjavile, strengthened the focus on high-quality, terroir-driven viticulture. Louis Mitjavile, a renowned winemaker from Bordeaux, brought his technical expertise and rigorous approach, contributing to the creation of exceptional wines, particularly the Les Brunes cuvée.
The terroir of Domaine Les Creisses is defined by the diversity of soils and microclimates that characterize the Faugères region. The vines grow on schist and gravel soils, which impart great minerality to the wines. The altitude and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea create ideal climatic conditions for growing local grape varieties, with hot, dry summers and cool nights that promote optimal grape ripening. The estate also benefits from perfect exposure, allowing for excellent air circulation around the vines, resulting in healthy and balanced grapes.
The wines of Domaine Les Creisses are a true expression of their terroir. The blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre offers rich, powerful, yet elegant wines, with complex aromas of black fruits, spices, and garrigue. The estate’s flagship cuvée, Les Brunes, perfectly embodies the balance between structure and finesse. The respectful winemaking process and certification in organic farming allow for the production of authentic wines, free from chemical additives, highlighting the purity of the fruit and the character of the terroir. Each vintage reflects the estate's expertise and deep connection to its roots.
The Wine
The Les Brunes cuvée is vinified with a terroir-respecting approach. The hand-harvested grapes undergo traditional vinification, with fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and primary aromas. A 12-month aging process in oak barrels allows for slow maturation, adding complexity and structure to the wine without masking the characteristics of the terroir. The use of indigenous yeasts enhances the natural expression of the wine.
Tasting
The color is deep and intense. The nose reveals aromas of ripe black fruits, licorice, and spices, with hints of garrigue. On the palate, the wine is powerful and structured, with silky tannins and a beautiful freshness. The finish is long and mineral, offering a perfect balance between fruit and complexity. An elegant wine, showcasing its schistous terroir, best enjoyed after a few years of aging.
