Description
The first vineyards at Domaine de Fontsainte were planted by the Romans; artifacts found in the vineyards, such as an old coin dating from the time of Marcus Agrippa in 25 AD, are a testament to its antiquity. The original domaine was built around a thermal spring, which was later named for the local, twelfth-century patron saint, Saint Siméon; hence Fontsainte—the saint’s fount. Yves Laboucarié’s family has been making wine there since the seventeenth century, but the modern era began in 1971 when Yves Laboucarié founded the current winery. Under his direction, the winery pioneered techniques like whole cluster fermentation and the "Gris de Gris" rosé, and today his son Bruno continues this innovative legacy. The Fontsainte vineyards surround the hamlet of Boutenac in the area known as “The Golden Crescent;” this swath of land is one of the sunniest in the appellation of Corbières, enjoying south-southeast exposure, and protection from the cold, northeast winds by a large 500-hectare forest. The cool sea breezes from the Mediterranean help this sun-soaked terroir achieve balance as well. Like many of the vignerons that we work with, Bruno believes that “great wines are made in the vineyard” and less in the cellars. He farms the land sustainably and keeps treatments to a minimum.
The RÉSERVE DEMOISELLE is a blend of 60% Carignan (planted in 1904), 30% Grenache Noir and 10% Mourvèdre. The Grenache and Mourvèdre were destemmed by hand; the Carignan went through carbonic maceration. Fermentation was approximately 15 days in temperature-controlled tanks. The young wine was rested in cement tank for 6 months before being racked into barrel; 60% of the wine aged for 8–12 months in French oak barrels, the remainder in cement tank. This medium-bodied red shows aromas and concentrated flavors of black cherry and cassis, complemented by notes of garrigue and a hint of spice and cocoa. It features firm tannins, earthy undertones, and a balanced structure with bright acidity and a long finish.
