Pont de Gassac 2021 Pays d'Herault Rouge, Languedoc

Around 1978, Parisian entrepreneur Aimé Guibert debuted a red wine from Languedoc with Bordeaux aspirations, something unheard of in this Mediterranean appellation more known as the wine lake of France for its low-quality wines.  Mas de Daumas Gassac was an international hit, praised by the British wine press as “the Chateau Latour of the Midi” for its breed, despite the unconventional use of Cabernet Sauvignon amidst local varieties in his blend.  It was the beginning of the artisan revolution in Languedoc, with enlightened producers soon harnessing the region’s old vines to produce some serious, respectable wines in neighboring Corbieres, Minervois, Saint Chinian and Pic Saint-Loup. 

Since then, the winery has branched out with the popular Moulin de Gassac label and more recently Pont de Gassac, more of a 2^nd label for the estate.  I first came in contact with this wine at a trade event for our leading French wine importer, and truth be told, I was swept up with enthusiasm.  A lighter, more engaging wine than the estate wine, this easy-drinking charmer is full of freshness in the aroma and flavor, yet it possesses a tannic grip that lets you know it is a wine of substance.  40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 25% Syrah, organically grown and fermented with indigenous yeast in stainless steel tanks.  You get all the fruit without any fooling around, just the way I like it.