The Producer
The Clos de la Barthassade is an estate created by Hélène and Guillaume Baron, who settled in the Terrasses du Larzac after training in Burgundy. The first vintage was produced in 2014, with the ambition to create precise, expressive wines that are true to their terroir.
Located in Aniane, in the heart of the Terrasses du Larzac, the estate has about 13 hectares of vines spread over several plots in Montpeyroux, Jonquières, and Saint-Saturnin. The stony terrace soils and limestone scree host Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Carignan, and Chenin. The vineyard is managed organically, with some practices inspired by biodynamics.
Hélène and Guillaume Baron favor natural parcel vinifications, using indigenous yeasts, without the addition of sulfites during fermentation, as well as gentle extractions to preserve the fruit and the finesse of the tannins. The aging combines stainless steel tanks, oak barrels, and demi-muids, depending on the cuvées. The estate offers a range of reds, whites, and rosés that combines freshness, depth, and expression of the Languedoc terroir.
The Wine
Average age of the vines: 35 years
Goblet and Cordon de Royat pruning
Terroir on stony terraces (limestone scree), in Montpeyroux (mourvèdre from La Barthassade) and in Jonquières (syrah from Bois de Paulhau and grenache from Combariolles)
VINIFICATIONS: 50% whole harvest, indigenous yeasts, gravity work, pump-overs during 2/3 of fermentation then punch downs, temperature control, maceration for 3 weeks.
AGING: 1 year in concrete tanks
Tasting
Dark color, nose of black olive tapenade, black fruits, and spices, fine structure, silky mouthfeel, finish on salinity.
Best enjoyed at 16-17°C, and to be served at an aperitif with cheese/charcuterie boards.