The vines grow on the Faugères hills, where the soils consist primarily of schist, a rock known for its excellent drainage and heat retention. The Syrah grapes are 50 percent crushed and then vinified. Minimal pumping is used, with only a few daily wettings of the grape skins. This process helps optimize the extraction of the desired aromas and tannins.
For Grenache and Carignan grapes, the vinification process lasts approximately three weeks at a controlled temperature of 28 degrees Celsius. During this period, regular aeration and pumping are used to promote the extraction of color and flavors. This gives the wine a rich and full flavor. After fermentation, malolactic fermentation takes place. Following vinification, the wine is aged in barrels for six months. The use of oak barrels adds complexity to the wine and helps enhance the aromas of ripe fruit and spices, while softening and integrating the tannins.
Calmel & Joseph Le Gaillard Faugères is a wine with a brilliant cherry red color in the glass. The nose is seduced by subtle hints of pencil lead, fresh mint, and a touch of meaty aromas. On the palate, refined flavors of mint, thyme, anise, licorice, fennel, and smoky notes combine, creating a captivating and complex tasting experience.
This vintage from Le Gaillard boasts a strong personality, with a rustic and wild side that nevertheless remains surprisingly elegant and harmonious. The interplay of aromas and flavors gives this wine a unique character and makes it an excellent choice for lovers of expressive and characterful wines.
