ABOUT: If you’ve ever thumbed through an issue of Decanter magazine you’ll recognize the name Mas de Daumas Gassac; Andrew Jefford loves ‘em and we listen to him so this name has been in our lobes for years. Considered the Grand Cru of the Languedoc, this property was purchased in 1974 by Aime Guilbert when he set about planting loads of different grape varieties throughout the property. The 40 hectares of vines supports 40 different grape varieties, some classic and some not so classic. The plots of vineyards are described as being divided by bands of forest, creating mini “clos”, which the previous owner developed to separate his grains from his orchards. The word Gassac in the title refers to the Gassac valley and the Gassac river which contributes to the cool microclimate which is a unique feature they have in the south of France. All organic practices as well, not a drop of chemical on that ruddy soil. I forgot to mention the wines are ethereal and critically acclaimed and can age like a son of a gun.

Click here for the pdf from daumus-gassac.com about the 2016 vintage

Jefford on Monday: The Liquid Novel - Mas de Daumas Gassac

TASTE: The Mas de Daumas Gassac Blanc 2016 is a blend of Petit Manseng, Viognier, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Muscat Petit Grains & Muscat of Alexandria in addition to a small percentage of rare grape varieties. Want to know which rare ones? Albarino, Amigne, Bourboulenc, Falanghina, Fiano, Grechetto, Gros Manseng, Khondorni, Marsanne, Neheleschol, Petit Courbu, Petite Arvine, Roussanne, Sémillon, Sercial and Tchilar. These folks are not messing around…since we mentioned Andrew Jefford earlier we’re just going to copy and paste his summarized tasting note of the blanc. “Mas de Daumas white is aromatically complex, vivacious and nuanced. In general, it comes across as more ‘northern’ and less ‘southern’ than the Languedoc location would suggest. Look out for orchard fruits (both temperate and tropical), a zesty balance in the mouth and a well-rounded finish. Its proportions, like those of its red sibling, can often surprise with their delicate classicism: these are in no sense rich, warm or ‘big’ wines, but rather shapely and fresh, with a lively drinking balance.” Thanks Andrew.

PAIR: Miso mushroom noodle surprise, oyster sauce chow mein, parmesan crusted carrots, grilled asparagus with wild onion, and rosemary roasted cashews.

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Domaine Gramenon Cotes du Rhone Vie on Y Est 2010

Mas de Daumas Gassac Blanc 2016

Montemaggiore Syrafina 2011