TERROIR
Covered in a layer of metamorphic schist, the vineyards of Félines Minervois lie between two plateaux of calcareous soils – our vines are planted at an elevation of 300-400 metres.
Forty acres of the plot are dedicated to Syrah and a small proportion of Roussanne, while the remaining land is planted to Grenache, Carignan, and Cinsault.
These parcels are usually the last to be harvested in the appellation, due to their altitude and north/south-east facing aspect – the worst ravages of mid-summer afternoon heat are avoided.
VINIFICATION
The grapes are handpicked and vinified with various proportions of whole clusters. The ripe stalks add more freshness and structure to the wine.
Once pressed, the wine, traditionally vinified in small cement tanks, is placed in 400l French oak barrels to age for at least 18 months. The wine is not filtered before bottling, offering a finished blend of 63% Syrah and 37% Carignan. The dark fruit complex character and soft tannins are the benchmarks of this exceptional soil.
Open and expressive, Clos L’Abeuradou: Les Schists is a red wine defined by its sophisticated tannins, ripe fruit and underlying minerality. Aromas of blackberry, cherry, and cinnamon lead into a full-bodied palate, with lovely freshness balancing out the intense red and black fruit.