Bergerie de l'Hortus 2024 Languedoc Rosé

The Languedoc is one of the most geologically diverse landscapes in France and nowhere is that more prevalent than in Pic Saint-Loup, where fault lines differentiate vineyards from one side of the road to the other. Since the time of the Romans, the peaks in this region had been a thriving area for grape production until the phylloxera epidemic of the late 19th century decimated much of the region’s vineyards. Growers replanted the low-lying plains, which were easier to farm, leaving the upper slopes to mountain climbers and goats.

When Professor of Agriculture Jean Orliac came to climb these cliffs in the early 1970s, there was an instant connection. Over time, he gave up his teaching career, and with the help of his wife, Marie-Thérèse, bought 50 hectares of wooded slopes that were in disrepair. Bringing these vineyards back to life was a task nothing short of herculean. Entire parcels were cleared out of the dense garrigue and planted to vineyards. It wasn’t until 1990 that the Orliacs were able to bottle their first vintage and shortly after build a new winery. Their hard work and dedication have put them at the forefront of a new wave of producers who have brought fresh energy and talent to the Pic Saint-Loup Coteaux du Languedoc AOC. Today, their children Marie, Yves, François and Martin run the estate.

This Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah Rose' blend displays a pale, salmon colored hue that leads into a wine with excellent finesse and crisp acidity. Delicate notes of crushed berry and violets make for an intriguing nose. Bright acidity and minerals provide great freshness and length in the mouth. Very poised and complex, it is.