Mas des Chimères - Nuit Grave 2023
Above Lake Salagou, in a striking landscape where red earth meets ancient volcanic flows, Mas des Chimères cultivates an identity deeply linked to the geological history of Languedoc. Located in Octon, at the foot of the first foothills of the Larzac, the estate is the work of Guilhem Dardé, who in 1993 decided to leave the cooperative system to vinify his own grapes. Joined by his wife Palma and then their daughter Maguelone, he gradually imposed a personal vision of Mediterranean wines, favoring freshness, fine textures, and the sincerity of the fruit. The family now works a vineyard of about 23 hectares, managed organically, on soils whose diversity is one of the great riches of the property. The red Permian ruffes, characteristic of the Salagou surroundings, are complemented by the higher basaltic plateaus where the wines of the Terrasses du Larzac appellation originate. These dark lands, resulting from ancient volcanic activity, contribute to the personality of deep, spicy reds that are surprisingly fresh despite their southern origin. Nuit Grave embodies this search for balance, with a generous expression of Languedoc that retains an elegance and suppleness rarely associated with wines of strong concentration.
Originating from the estate's basaltic plateaus, Nuit Grave 2023 blends Syrah, predominant at 45%, with Grenache (38%) and Mourvèdre (17%), three grape varieties whose complementary characteristics build the wine's depth. The vines, some of which are several decades old, benefit from poor, well-drained soils that naturally limit their vigor and promote grape concentration. Syrah brings its spicy framework, floral nuances, and structure, while Grenache enriches the body with its fruity flesh and Mourvèdre contributes to the tannic structure of the whole. The harvest is done manually, then the grapes are destemmed before fermentation in tanks, conducted with indigenous yeasts. Extended macerations, accompanied by gentle extractions, allow for ripe tannins and deep matter without seeking excessive power. Aging continues for about twelve months in large oak containers, including 600-liter demi-muids, to refine the texture while preserving the fruit's clarity. The 2023 vintage thus gives birth to a particularly expressive Terrasses du Larzac, in which Mediterranean ripeness is accompanied by persistent freshness and remarkable fluidity on the palate.
Nuit Grave 2023 shows a dark purple robe with violet reflections, announcing a red of beautiful intensity without excessive opacity. The nose opens on fresh blackberry, crushed raspberry, and violet, before revealing deeper notes of incense, bay leaf, licorice, and white pepper. The palate surprises with its velvety, almost caressing touch, with ample matter whose density never compromises the sensation of freshness. The tannins, supple and finely drawn, accompany a juicy and precise fruit, while a well-present acidity gives the wine a particularly appreciable energy. The finish is distinguished by its tonic character, blending small black fruits, spices, and a slight saline sensation that pleasantly prolongs the tasting. This personality, both fleshy and elegant, will find beautiful pairings with rosemary confit lamb shoulder, spiced duck breast, grilled ribeye steak, or slowly braised beef cheek stew. Already accessible after slight aeration, this wine can also age several years in the cellar, gradually developing nuances of garrigue, fine leather, and candied fruits without losing its savory character.
Grape varieties: 45% Syrah, 38% Grenache, 17% Mourvèdre
