From the beginning, Caraguilhes covered an area of some 600 unbroken hectares. The vineyards cover 135 hectares and are strategically surrounded and protected by 500 hectares of garrigue (wild land) constituting an rich ecosystem riche and a unique environment.
Remarkably, over the course of history, the domain of Caraguilhes has remained intact. Centuries later in 1958, Lionel Faivre took over Caraguilhes with the ambition of making authentic wine with organic grapes. An environmentalist, Lionel pioneered natural farming and wine-making practices by employing sustainable organic techniques. His refusal to use chemical fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides was almost unheard of at the time. Nearly thirty years later, he completed the final transformation of Caraguilhes into full organic production.
In 2005, Pierre Gabison took over sole ownership of the business and it has remained organic.
Situated just 30 kilometers from the Mediterranean sea at altitudes of 100 to 180 meters, the vineyards at Caraguilhes are exposed to the north west wind (the Tramontane) which is a natural aide, keeping the vines healthy by limiting fungal maladies (champignons) and reducing the population of harmful insects. The wind also cools the vines on hot summer days, which helps to maintain acidity levels in the grapes and allows them to mature more slowly and more completely.
The Gourgoules is a blend of 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah, 15% Carignan (carbonic fermentation)
The Caraguilhes Gourgoules has concentrated aromas of blackberries and tapenade, with undertones of rosemary and pepper. The fresh nose lends maturity to the wine, and this young wine. On the palate these is a silky attack, with notes of pepper, blackberry and black olive, compliments beautifully the robust quality of the wine. Tannins contribute to a good stability reinforcing the balance dynamics.
