Mas des Chimères - Oeillade 2025
On the shores of Lake Salagou, in the hinterland of Hérault, Mas des Chimères cultivates vines amidst a spectacular landscape of red earth and volcanic reliefs. In Octon, the Dardé family has been working this land for several generations, once shared between livestock, olive trees, and vineyards. Guilhem Dardé founded the estate in 1993, after having long delivered his grapes to the village cooperative cellar, soon joined by his wife Palma and then their daughter Maguelone. Together, they have built a property recognized for the personality of its wines, their aromatic frankness, and their attachment to the terroirs of Salagou. The vineyard, managed organically, extends over contrasting geological formations, between the red Permian ruffes and the basaltic flows inherited from ancient volcanic activity. This diversity allows the estate to offer both deep and structured reds and cuvées favoring freshness and delicacy of fruit. The Oeillade belongs to this second family, offering a particularly spontaneous and flavorful interpretation of the Languedoc Cinsault.
Behind its singular name, the Oeillade 2025 hides a red made exclusively from Cinsault, a Mediterranean grape variety long used in blends for its suppleness and aromatic qualities. Guilhem Dardé reserves it here a full place, convinced of its ability to produce fine and expressive wines when carefully cultivated. The vines root in clay-sandy soils dating from the Permian, whose characteristic red color comes from their richness in iron oxides. Black basalt blocks, witnesses of Salagou's volcanic history, also punctuate these ancient lands. The grapes are hand-harvested, then destemmed before a traditional vinification involving remontages and pigeages adapted to the delicacy of the grape variety. The goal is not to seek heavy extraction but to preserve the juicy character of the fruit and the natural suppleness of the tannins. The 2025 vintage continues this approach with a red wine accessible in its youth, whose interest lies in the sincerity of its expression rather than concentration or power.
The clear ruby robe, bright and slightly translucent, announces a southern red that favors finesse over density. The nose opens on aromas of wild strawberry, fresh cherry, and raspberry, accompanied by hints of violet, white pepper, and dry herbs. The palate has an immediately gourmand character, with a supple and delicate texture, discreet tannins, and freshness that gives the wine great liveliness. The fruit retains a crunchy sensation, while slight spicy notes and a touch of bitterness bring relief to the finish. Far from the powerful and sunny Languedoc reds, this Oeillade expresses a lighter, almost airy personality, without lacking flavor or character. It will gladly accompany a plate of artisanal charcuterie, grilled lamb chops, herb-roasted poultry, or Mediterranean vegetables confit in olive oil. Served slightly chilled, it will show its full measure in the first years following the harvest, when its fruit retains its brightness and vivacity.
Grape variety: 100% Cinsault
