The estate is managed by Anaïs Ricome with help from her father, Yves, who began bottling his own wine at La Croix Gratiot in 2005. Before taking over the family estate, Anaïs spent time working in New Zealand with Matt Thomson (co-owner of Blank Canvas) which influenced her decision to make pure, site-specific wines that reflect the potential of Picpoul’s local varieties.

Anaïs has driven a transition to biodynamic farming across the 35-hectare estate and gained organic certification from the 2021 vintage. In addition, the vineyards have been restructured and planted to varieties best suited to the soil and microclimate.

The Picpoul grapes grow close to the commune of Mèze on a chalky limestone plateau. The proximity of the zone to the Mediterranean sea means maritime breezes help to cool the climate and provide ideal conditions for developing the variety’s aromatic compounds and lively acidity.

The grapes were harvested at night to preserve maximum freshness. Upon arrival at the winery, they were gently pressed and the must was settled and racked off its gross lees before being transferred to temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks for fermentation at cool temperatures (around 15°C) to preserve the vibrant aromatics of the Picpoul. Unoaked, the wine was aged in stainless steel on its fine lees for a brief period to add texture to the palate.

Perfect with seafood but particularly oysters!

Declared “the pinnacle of Picpoul de Pinet” by the French publication La Revue du Vin de France.