Vin Nature & Vin Vivant

 Le Coste by Gianmarco Antonuzi and Clementine Bouveron

Le Coste is a renowned Italian winery located in Gradoli, a small town in the Lazio region of central Italy. This winery has gained significant attention and acclaim for its dedication to natural winemaking practices and its commitment to producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines. Founded by Gianmarco Antonuzi and Clementine Bouveron, Le Coste focuses on organic and biodynamic viticulture, which involves working in harmony with nature and the surrounding ecosystem. The vineyards are cultivated without the use of synthetic chemicals or additives, and great care is taken to ensure that the grapes express the unique characteristics of the land. Le Coste primarily cultivates indigenous grape varieties, including Trebbiano, Malvasia, Aleatico, and Sangiovese, among others. These grapes are hand-harvested and undergo minimal intervention during the winemaking process. Fermentation occurs naturally with native yeasts, and the wines are typically aged in a combination of amphorae, old barrels, and sometimes in bottle, allowing them to develop complexity and nuance over time. One of the defining features of Le Coste wines is their distinct sense of place. The vineyards are situated on volcanic soils, which impart minerality and depth to the wines. The wines often exhibit vibrant acidity, fresh fruit flavors, and a sense of energy that reflects the unique terroir of the region. Le Coste's commitment to natural winemaking and sustainability has earned them a dedicated following among wine enthusiasts who appreciate wines that reflect their origins and are made with a deep respect for the environment. While their production levels are relatively small, their wines are highly sought after and can be found on wine lists at some of the world's most prestigious restaurants and wine shops.

 2017 Le Coste Gambrinus 

Cuvee Gambrinus is renowned for its vibrant acidity, intriguing flavors, and distinctive minerality. It often presents a layer of complexity with a texture that is both lively and expressive. Each vintage of Cuvee Gambrinus reflects the unique conditions of that particular growing season, making it an exciting wine for enthusiasts to explore. Due to its limited production and high demand, Cuvee Gambrinus can be difficult to find outside of select retailers and restaurants. However, for those fortunate enough to taste it, it offers a captivating glimpse into the world of natural winemaking and the rich terroir of the Bolsena Lake. Gambrinus is truly special. Crafted from Aleatico grapes sourced from old vineyards, typically destined for the Alea Jacta Est cuvee, this wine takes a unique journey. However, in 2017, circumstances led to these grapes not reaching their full ripeness potential. Instead of letting them go to waste, Le Coste decided to embark on a unique winemaking journey. The whole grape bunches were gently placed into the mix, infusing their essence into the wine for a remarkable three months. After this patient infusion, the grapes were pressed off into old casks, where they spent three years maturing and evolving.

Beautiful label 

Domaine des Cavarodes Côtes du Jura Savagnin Pressé 2020

Etienne Thiebaud of Domaine des Cavarodes is particularly renowned for his work with indigenous Jura grape varieties such as Savagnin, Chardonnay, Poulsard, and Trousseau. Thiebaud's winery is located in the village of Cramans in the northern part of the Jura since 2007. He is known for his commitment to organic and biodynamic farming practices, as well as his minimalist approach to winemaking, which allows the true expression of the terroir to shine through in his wines. Thiebaud's wines often display a distinct character, with flavors and aromas that reflect the specific soils and microclimates of the Jura region. They are typically produced in small quantities and are highly sought after by enthusiasts of natural and artisanal wines. Many cuvées are made from around 4.5 hectares, some of which include vines that are quite old, around 115 years.

The 2020 Savagnin Presse exhibits vibrant acidity, which adds freshness and brightness to the wine. This acidity helps to balance the wine's other flavors and can contribute to its aging potential. It showcases a complex aromatic profile, with notes of citrus fruits such as lemon and grapefruit, as well as floral aromas like jasmine and honeysuckle. Over time, the wine develops little nutty and oxidative flavors, such as walnut, hazelnut, and curry spices, all subtly present. The chalky, flinty texture on the palate is attributed to the presence of certain minerals in the soil, including marl and limestone with traces of fossil marine. The interplay between the wine's fruitiness, acidity, and minerality creates a harmonious and refreshing drinking experience, with each element complementing the others.

2018 Cantina Giardino T'ararà

Cantina Giardino is a notable winery located in the Campania region of southern Italy, specifically in the province of Avellino - Ariano Irpinia. This winery has gained recognition for its commitment to natural winemaking practices and its focus on preserving traditional grape varieties and winemaking techniques indigenous to the region. They minimize intervention in both the vineyard and cellar, eschewing the use of synthetic chemicals and additives in favor of organic and biodynamic farming practices. The grapes are hand-harvested, and fermentation occurs spontaneously with native yeasts, allowing the wines to express the true character of the terroir. They work with grape varieties such as Aglianico, Fiano, Greco, and Coda di Volpe, with many old vines present and preserved in the holding. The vineyards are situated on different types of soil, from volcanic to limestone and clay soils, which impart distinct mineral characteristics to the wines. The region's warm Mediterranean climate and high altitude vineyards also contribute to the wines' complexity and freshness. The winemakers take a hands-on approach, allowing the wines to ferment and age naturally without excessive manipulation. As a result, their wines often exhibit a sense of purity and authenticity that resonates with enthusiasts of natural and artisanal wines. Their focus on tradition, terroir, and natural winemaking continues to captivate wine lovers seeking authentic expressions of place and culture.

As for the 2018 Cantina Giardino T'ararà, it is a vibrant orange wine that evokes the imagery of the sun setting over the horizon, with notes of citrus and wild herbs dancing on your palate. Crafted from Greco grapes nurtured on the highest vines of the estate, at 650 meters above sea level, it captures the soul of mountain terroir. With 4 days of gentle maceration on the skins and spontaneous fermentation, followed by aging for 12 months in oak casks and bottle, without filtration or added sulphites, T ara ra unfolds on the palate with richness and generosity. It offers notes of ripe citrus, hints of sweet spices, and a whisper of smoky memories reminiscent of our volcanic soils. There's a rustic charm to its character, a nod to our humble roots and the untamed spirit of Irpinia.

While Philippe Chatillon may not have the same level of fame as some other producers in the Jura region, his wines are highly regarded by those who appreciate the authenticity and craftsmanship of traditional Jura wines. Whether it's a crisp, mineral-driven Chardonnay or a complex, age-worthy Vin Jaune, Philippe Chatillon's wines offer a glimpse into the rich winemaking heritage of the Jura region. They often reflect the characteristics of the Jura region, including its diverse soils, cool climate, and indigenous grape varieties such as Savagnin, Trousseau, and Poulsard. Known for his attention to detail in the vineyard and cellar, Philippe employs organic and biodynamic farming practices and minimal intervention winemaking techniques to allow the true expression of the grapes and terroir to shine through in his wines.

Philippe Chatillon creates his wines with a lot of love and passion. He accompanies every stage of the vine to create the healthiest and most vibrant grapes. From the outset, he chooses to practice organic and biodynamic farming. This technique requires special attention and an ever-increasing presence in the vineyards. The harvest is entirely manual, with grapes picked in baskets and arriving intact at the cellar to avoid oxidation. Neither herbicides nor synthetic chemical products are used in the vineyard or cellar. Only the pick caresses the vine. Philippe works with natural products: horn manure, compost tea that ferments for 24 hours. It consists of a mixture of seaweed and fungi that is then spread on the ground. In the cellar, the grapes are guided to express their fruit and terroir. They are aged in barrels in an old 17th-century cellar. In 2017, the estate acquired an 18th-century cellar, and in 2018, a 19th-century cellar completed the heritage. Barrel aging brings energy to the red wine, and the whites become more unctuous while retaining the terroir's nervousness. For Philippe Chatillon, good wine is made in the vineyard, without chaptalization or added yeast, from grapes grown with respect for agriculture and biodynamics. In 2019, Anatole Chatillon, his son, joined the estate. The wines of Domaine Philippe Chatillon are certified organic by Ecocert and Vin Nature.

The Philippe Chatillon estate in Poligny covers 1.95 hectares in Arbois, 1 hectare in Passenans and Monay in Côtes du Jura, and 0.20 hectares in Château-Chalon. The Philippe Chatillon estate produces the following appellations: Arbois, Côtes du Jura, Crémant du Jura, Marc de Franche-Comté brandy, Macvin du Jura, and Vin de France.

Philippe Chatillon Arbois Les Nouvelles Savagnin Oxydatif 2014

A captivating bouquet of aromas. Rich and full-bodied,  Notes of nuts, freshly cracked shells, apricots and figs, adding layers of complexity to the bouquet. There is also a distinct oxidative character present, reminiscent of sherry or fino, with nuances of toasted bread and spice. A pronounced mouthfeel that coats the tongue. It displays a wonderful balance between its high acidity and rich, nutty flavors. The initial impression is one of intense nuttiness, with flavors of walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts taking center stage. These are complemented by secondary notes of dried fruits, caramelized sugar, and hints of exotic spices such as curry and saffron. Despite its richness, retains a remarkable freshness and vitality, with a long, lingering finish that leaves a lasting impression.

6 years in untopped barrel... A VIN JAUNE... 

Claude Courtois located in in Sologne (Loire) may not identify himself as a biodynamic farmer, but his small farm epitomizes the essence of biodiversity and self-sufficiency inherent in biodynamics. Courtois cultivates organic wheat, which he feeds to his cows, and their manure in turn fertilizes his fields. His vineyard is a chemical-free zone, with no pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers allowed. Instead, he nurtures a balanced ecosystem with trees, fruit trees, vines, woods, and fields.

For Courtois, the soil is a living organism, and he employs his own methods to promote its diverse life. Grapes, including Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Côt (Malbec), Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Pineau d’Aunis, and potentially up to forty other varieties, are meticulously hand-harvested, and only indigenous yeasts drive fermentation.

As Claude transitions into retirement, his son, Etienne, assumes greater responsibility for winemaking. Etienne exhibits promising talent and upholds the family tradition with dedication. He continues Claude's practice of extended aging while also experimenting with shorter aging for fresher wines. Like his father, Etienne adheres unwaveringly to natural winemaking principles, avoiding chemical intervention both in the vineyard and the cellar.

The wines of Courtois domaine are distinct and true to their heritage, reflecting a commitment to purity and authenticity passed down through generations. Etienne's emergence signifies the seamless transition to the next chapter of winemaking excellence at the domaine.

2018 Claude & Etienne Courtois , Romorantin - Les Cailloux du Paradis

This exceptional wine has undergone a remarkable 40-month maturation period in seasoned oak barrels, imparting a delicate light gold hue. Its bouquet is a symphony of intense aromas, featuring notes of dried flowers, citrus confit, ripe pear, hay, and earth. On the palate, it presents a vibrant acidity, complemented by saline stone nuances, zesty lemon/orange peel, luscious ripe white fruits, subtle petrol undertones, hints of clove, and earthy accents, culminating in a sensational mineral-driven finish. Despite its opulent richness, the wine concludes with a dry elegance, promising longevity in aging. A truly extraordinary expression of Romorantin, boasting impeccable balance and complexity, destined to evolve gracefully over time. Notably, this wine is crafted without the addition of sulfur dioxide.

Genetic studies reveal that Romorantin is the offspring of a cross between Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc. This rare white grape variety is exclusive to a single appellation worldwide: the AOC Cour-Cheverny, nestled in the picturesque region of Sologne in the Loire Valley.

Best

raffaele mastrovincenzo Blog raffaelemastrovincenzo.blogspot.com.au -------------------------------------- wine / spirit / lambic / drinker ------------------------------------- https://www.instagram.com/pitbeat/