The terroir of Ensérune
A singular geological formation
The terroir of the Ensérune hill, where the estate is located, is characterized by a singular geological formation dating from the Miocene, from -25 to -5 million years ago. This original formation is the result of marine sedimentation that was brought up during local tectonic movements in the Tertiary period.
On the property, the soil is made of sedimentary rocks combining sandstone and sandy marl (clay/limestone/sand). The subsoil is associated with a cultivation technique that allows deep rooting of the vine. This is why the vines are planted and cultivated at depth to get the water and mineral resources.
A exceptional climate
Our vineyard is situated high up on the hillsides of the Oppidum d’Ensérune, overlooking the region. This gives our vines an exceptional microclimate, with warm Mediterranean weather and winds from the Cevennes mountain range.
A favorable impact
This climate pattern improves the quality of the grapes and brings distinctive finesse to the wines. The heat of the Mediterranean sunshine is lessened by the winds. In summer, the breeze and the vineyard’s high location mean that temperatures drop at night and the ripening of the grapes is slowed.
The Enserune hillsides
The Coteaux d’Ensérune wine area was established in the 1980s but the protected geographical indication IGP Coteaux d’Ensérune was only officially recognised in 2009. The area covers 3,650 hectares of vineyards across 15 different municipalities. It is located between Béziers and the Aude departement.
A diversity of soils
Limestone and clay-limestone cover almost all the soils of the IGP with a very variable texture and depth. A very soft rock formed by marine sands from the coast and sediments from the Miocene make up the soil in the south. Further north, the soils are characterized by marl and schist intermingled with molasses and limestone.
The Mediterranean mildness
The marked Mediterranean climate is conducive to hot, dry summers and mild winters with two rainy periods in the autumn and spring. The heat of the summer is tempered by the sea winds. The rain cycles allow the hydration of the vine, on average 500 to 600 mm of water falls.
The wines of the Côteaux
The white wines of the appellation are characterized by an aromatic palette of white flesh fruits and citrus fruits, marked by freshness and a slight acidity well balanced with a sapid side at the end of the mouth.
The rosé wines of the Côteaux d’Ensérune are similar to the whites in their freshness and vivacity. They express themselves through aromas of small red fruits, very rich and with a fresh finish.
The red wines are marked by aromas of red and black fruits such as raspberry and blackberry but also slightly spicy. Wines of character with a perfect balance between freshness and fine tannins.