Clos du Causse 2022

Domaine Combe Blanche

The story of his life should read “teacher”. But the call of the sun and the desire for something different were stronger than the rest, and Guy Vanlancker left rainy Belgium as soon as he had his diploma to establish his destiny in a superb vineyard in La Livinière, the first appellation village in the Languedoc (1999). Twelve hectares are under production, including eight in the AOC Minervois La Livinière and Minervois. His cellar, which lies right at the heart of the village, is surrounded by thick walls from old fortifications. With his son Ambroise, who now works with him, Guy Vanlancker has embarked upon an organic certification process for the vineyard (label expected for 2021).

Clos du Causse

The petit causse nature area lies among the foothills of the Montagne Noire mountain range. Guy Vanlancker’s north-facing vineyard is staggered on three clay-limestone terraces, the largest of which is planted with Grenache, which is consequently the main variety in the blend. “Grenache Noir, which is not prominent in the La Livinière blends, deserves more attention in my view. It is not as opulent and tannic as Syrah; I like its elegance, its smoothness and its length”, the winemaker says. 

Harvested by hand, stemming, fermentation with marc for three weeks and matured in tanks for 15 months.  

   Intense dark red robe.

   Deep nose marked by raspberries, blackberries and blueberries with spicy hints.

   Red meat, cassoulet, duck breast, dark chocolate.

   17-18 °C