Clos du Temple Rosé Languedoc Cabrières 2019, Gérard Bertrand

Clos du Temple is Bertrand’s vision of a fine and iconic rosé from the Languedoc. Located in the heart of the region, Clos du Temple is crafted from the historic terroir of Cabrières, which was made prominent in 1357 under the name “royally controlled” (“royalement contrôlée”) where the wines were served at the Sun King, Louis XIV’s banquets. The eight hectares of vines in the terroir are divided into a mosaic of seven small plots and are farmed following biodynamic principles.

The wine’s blend of Cinsault, Grenache Noir and Syrah are perfectly suited to the well-draining, well exposed schist soils, while Viognier and Mourvèdre add complexity to the wine.

Gérard Bertrand, creator of the wine commented: “Clos du Temple is a creation inspired by a unique piece of soil that combines schist and limestone. The wine is also driven by the combination of grapes with the intention to keep it for ten or 15 years and let it develop tertiary flavours”.

“The ultra-luxe 2019 Languedoc Cabrières Rosé Clos du Temple is extremely limited in production. Certified organic and biodynamic, cultivated by horse and mule, handpicked, aged in new French oak and bottled in eye-catching custom glass, this wine has had everything thrown at it. So, is it worth the price of admission? For most people, the answer will come down to how much money they make and who they’re trying to impress. It’s certainly an excellent wine. A blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Viognier, it offers sexy floral notions on the nose alongside subtle aromas of cedar shavings and hints of strawberries. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied and silky-textured, with plenty of ripeness and richness in evidence, then finishes long and gently citrusy, with modest mocha shadings.” Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate.