Languedoc-Roussillon

This wine consists of 100% Picpoul (or Piquepoul) - a very popular, traditional local variety planted on sun-drenched hillsides called "costières" (coastal region) in the Mediterranean garrigue, near the Etang de Thau - a coastal lagoon situated between the port of Sète and Marseillan. The vines are 15-20 years old.

The garrigue is the name given to open scrubland made up of low-growing, dwarf bushy shrubs including holm oak, juniper, broom and wild herbs such as rosemary, thyme and sage.

The color is a superb pale yellow with bright hues. The nose is elegant, with aromas of fresh fruit and citrus fruit especially grapefruit. Well-balanced with typical focusing and zesty acidity.

A pure expression of the grape varietal, the wine shows how good Picpoul can be when grown on its favorite terroir. Our best value, this wine impresses novices and hardened geeks equally.

-Importer notes (Kysela)

Grapes for both the Rivesaltes and Rancio sec are Grenache gris, harvested by hand from a small 1.9-hectare vineyard of 70-year old goblet vines. Following fermentation and a week-long maceration, elevage is undertaken in a former horse stable situated behind the chateau, a truly special place for the rearing of oxidative wines. The wines are kept in used 225-liter Bordelais fûts, stacked twos and threes, and year-by-year they concentrate and develop the rich texture and notable rancio character that is a hallmark of their elevage.

Located in small village of Sainte Colombe de la Commanderie, on the terroir of Aspres, at the foothills of Mont Canigou, the last peak in the Pyrenees before the Mediterranean sea. Aspres means arid or dry in Cataln, depicting the chalky clay and schist soil of the region, which is the best terroir for vins doux naturels made of Grenache noir, Maccabeo and Grenache gris. Georges Mossé (1884 – 1964), the father of the current owner, decided to not sell the entire harvest each year but instead preserve some great vintages in oak after WWI. That’s why we are fortunate to have these exceptional wines in barrels.

-Importer notes (Martine's)

The Irouleguy Rouge “Ohitza” cuvée is typically made from 50% Tannat and 50% Cabernet Franc. The parcels are from sandstone soils at mid-elevation. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel with a maceration of around seventeen days. The wine is aged 70% in barrels of 3/4/5 years and 30% in cement tanks. Every three months the wine is racked and assembled and then redivided among the barrels and tanks. After a year, a final assemblage is made which then continues to mature in barrel and tank until bottling in June, eighteen months after harvest. Ohitza is the basque word for tradition.

• Winemaker: The de Crozals family, led by Jean-Marc and Anne, have produced wine at 
  Domaine des Homs
   for three generations.
• Vineyard: The grapes are grown on a 22-hectare family estate on a plateau at 300 meters above sea level. The soils are stony with angular pebbles and leached clays.
• Farming: The vineyard has been certified organic since 2006.
• Vinification: The winemakers practice long macerations and regular pumping over to create a rich and concentrated wine. It is matured in oak barrels for several months

Bassins Direct Import — we discovered this wine ourselves from the Grézan winery, located in Faugères in the south of France, and brought it in exclusively.

A fresh, juicy southern French red made for everyday drinking. Bursting with ripe red berries, black cherry, and a touch of garrigue, this smooth, medium-bodied wine is easygoing yet full of character. Soft tannins and bright acidity make it incredibly versatile.

Great with: grilled meats, pizza, burgers, or weeknight pasta
Style: approachable, crowd-pleasing, and dangerously drinkable
Serve slightly chilled for maximum refreshment

Bassins Direct Import — we discovered this wine ourselves at the Grézan estate in Faugères and brought it in exclusively.

A bright, refreshing white from the sunny south of France crafted by the Grézan winery. This expressive Pays d’Oc blanc is made from a blend of Viognier and Grenache Blanc, offering aromatic lift and a smooth, inviting texture. 

 Tasting notes: lively citrus and orchard fruits with floral hints and a clean, fresh finish.
Great with: seafood, shellfish, salads, light pastas, or enjoy chilled on its own.
Style: crisp, refreshing, and versatile — perfect for warm weather or any table.
Serve: well-chilled for best expression.