Borie la Vitarèle has two key principles: respect for the soil, and respect for the wine. Beyond this, they describe their mission in winemaking as: “to produce authentic wines that faithfully reflect the soil from which they came.” Founded in 1990 by Jean-François and Cathy Izarn, after Jean-François’ premature death the estate is now run by Cathy, along with her daughter Camille as the winemaker. They have been farming biodynamically and organically since 1998. Their winemaking focuses on only using native yeasts, minimal intervention, and using minimal sulfites.

The farm is located in Saint-Chinian in the heart of the Languedoc, covering over 18 hectares of gravel schist, limestone, and clay soils. The wines are deeply expressive of the terroir, and are barrel-aged no more than a year to preserve their unique identities. According to Borie la Vitarèle, “our soils are alive, our vines look happy, and our wines have character.” Their philosophy of harmony between the land and the vineyards is evident in their elegant, complex, terroir specific wines.

Certified organic. Biodynamically and sustainably farmed. Suitable for vegans. 

Tasting Notes: This exciting find from vines on limestone soils within the St-Chinian appellation, vinified in concrete, is juicy and fresh in character, with real herbal interest on the nose and a textural, minty palate showing crunchy dark fruits and spice. Delicious.

Varietals: Grenache and Cinsault

Region: Herault, Languedoc-Roussillon, France