In this Episode #41 of the Tasting with Julien series, reviewing Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc we learn about the typical expression of these grape varieties originating from the Loire Valley of France, here revealed in a beautiful expression made by Maison Ventenac in the Cabardès area of Languedoc.
Information about the winery:
Maison Ventenac is a family-owned estate and winery located in the heart of the Cabardès AOP, near Carcassone in the Languedoc wine region of France.
The area, near the medieval fortified city of Carcassone has the rare characteristic of benefitting from oceanic influences from the Atlantic Ocean yet with an overall Mediterranean climate typical of Laguedoc.
Therefore, Cabardès is the only appellation in Languedoc with the obligation to assemble at least 40% of Atlantic grapes that originate from Bordeaux (Cabernet, Merlot) with 40% of Mediterranean varieties such as Syrah or Grenache.
Yet, with with the fascinating wines reviewed here, Maison Ventenac has pushed the envelope of innovation and challenge even further by growing grape varieties that originate from the Loire Valley: Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc!
Maison Ventenac has committed to a sustainable agriculture approach certified by the leading organization ‘TERRA VITIS’. However, building on a desire to take respect for the land even further, internal specifications require that no chemical inputs be used on our soils. The transition has been underway since 2015, and almost all of the estate is now weeded mechanically.
The wines tasted and reviewed here:
2018 Maison Ventenac ‘Candide’ Chenin Blanc, Vin de France
2018 Maison Ventenac ‘l’Intrus’ Cabernet Franc, Vin de France
2017 Maison Ventenac ‘Patience’ Cabernet Franc, Vin de France
2017 Maison Ventenac ‘Paul’ Cabernet Franc, Vin de France
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