Located just outside Cézanne’s iconic city of Aix-en-Provence, Château de la Gaude is a stunning estate dedicated to organic and biodynamic viticulture, ensuring harmony with the environment and its terroir. The estate’s 17 hectares of vines, classified as AOC Côteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, thrive at an altitude of 250–400 meters, rooted in a unique blend of rocky soils, marl, and sandstone. All wines produced by the Château are proudly certified Organic Agriculture.
The carefully cultivated grape varieties include Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rolle, Grenache Blanc, and Sémillon, showcasing the diversity of Provence.
Crafted from 60-year-old, hand-harvested vines, Hortense Rouge is a blend of 60% Grenache Noir, 25% Syrah, and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are meticulously sorted, directly pressed, and whole-bunch-vinified in concrete vats using wild, indigenous yeasts A portion is aged in concrete to preserve purity and finesse, another in Amphora, to contribute minerality and linearity, and the remainder is in French oak for 12 months. The complex final blend showcases this unusual aging regimen.
In the glass, it reveals a striking black cherry hue with ruby highlights. The nose is warm and inviting, brimming with red and black fruits—raspberry, strawberry, and spiced blackberry—offering exceptional aromatic intensity. On the palate, it is supple and fresh, with soft tannins and vibrant notes of small red berries, sweet spices, fine pepper, and a refreshing balance. A wine of exquisite delicacy and drinkability, Hortense Rouge is a true testament to Château de la Gaude’s mastery of organic winemaking.
Pair this with duck breast, soft cheeses, or try with desserts such as chocolate tart.
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