Clos de Caveau Fruit Sauvage Vacqueyras 2022

Henri is the second generation of the Bungener family to own and work Le Clos de Caveau, an exceptional estate, surrounded by forest and made up of a single 14-ha parcel on the side of the Dentelles de Montmirail. The estates was purchased by Henri's father Gerard, from Steven Spurrier in 1976. Gérard decided to farm and produce wine organically which was highly surprising at the time. It would not be until 1985 that “organic certification” would be introduced in France. In 1989, Le Clos de Caveau was certified organic and, since organic viticulture was no longer an unspoken secret they added the tiny green and white ‘AB’ logo on the labels of their wines

On the slopes of Montmirail, the bedrock is vertically stratified which allows roots to penetrate deeply into the limestone soils. The altitude is 650 m, which is also higher than any other vines in the appellation and the estate is surrounded by well kept forests which is key to preserving biodiversity and thus facilitating organic farming and indigenous yeast ferments. At this altitude and perfect sun exposure, the 2022 Syrah and Grenache vines produce naturally fresh and copmlex wines. Most of the work in the vineyard is carried out by hand and the yields are very small.

From vines 10 to 45 years old this sauvage creates a beautifully dark purply red wine. Then it is aged for 12 months in concrete vats. It delivers aromas of black currants and sour cherries. On the palate it offers a medium bodied and well balanced finish.