Domaine Tariquet, A Family Success Story

Conscious of the values of the land, the Grassa family’s ambition is to return to nature what she has so generously given. Respect for the plant is essential, and fertilisation is carried out using organic vineyard manure. In the winery, when the grape juice is treated, the water used to dilute the active ingredients is partly demineralised and its pH is lowered to limit the impact on the environment. During vinification, the Domaine reduces the use of sulphites to the strict minimum. This commitment extends right down to the bottle, where the choice of glass, the aluminium cap, the paper label and even the cardboard packaging are all 100% recyclable.

Like most winegrowers in the Gers, the Grassa family developed their wine production in the 1980s, at a time when sales of Armagnac, the family's original product, were struggling. When they decided to try their hand at dry white wines, a veritable wave of success swept through the wine world. Prized on foreign markets, these vins de pays are now among the most exported white wines in the world, and have since been classified as Côtes de Gascogne IGP. These popular wines are pleasant, fruity and inexpensive. Yet while they may appear light at first glance, Côtes de Gascogne white wines conceal a strong personality and powerful aromas. They are made from several of the region's grape varieties: Ugni Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Colombard and Gros Manseng, as well as unusual blends such as Chardonnay and Chenin or Chardonnay and Sauvignon. Their first cuvée, Classic, was a great success, making a major contribution to the worldwide reputation of Côtes de Gascogne. Domaine Tariquet is well and truly at the origin of this real craze for Gers wines. A pioneer in the creation of the IGP Protected Geographical Indication appellation, the Domaine has taken a whole region in its wake, and will continue to benefit from the Tariquet effect for a long time to come!

It wasn't until 1982 that the Grassa family decided to diversify into white wine production, producing the very first Côtes de Gascogne IGP white wine. Since then, Domaine Tariquet has continued to develop its range of aromatic, fresh and flavoursome white wines. They come in dry and sweet white wines. In just a few years, this estate has established itself in the world of white wines with its quality nectars that are pleasant on the palate and relatively affordable in price. The Grassa family is also expanding its range with a sparkling wine, as well as quality rosé wines.

Lovers of dry white wines and sweet white wines will find what they're looking for in Domaine Tariquet's particularly wide range. Looking for a supple, fruity dry white wine? The Classic and Réserve cuvées are perfect. Classic has an intense nose with floral aromas, citrus notes and exotic nuances. On the palate, it is lively, crisp and very fresh. The second gives off complex aromas, blending fruity notes with hints of vanilla and wood. For those who prefer full-bodied, racy dry white wines, the cuvée Chardonnay Tête de Cuvée is the perfect choice. Intense and elegant on the nose, this wine reveals vanilla and exotic notes. On the palate, it is pleasantly fresh with fruity notes and a lingering finish that is both rich and lively. More of a sweet white wine? Cuvée Premières Grives is a safe bet. Produced only in the best years, this sweet wine, made from over-ripe grapes, is appreciated for its great finesse and remarkable balance between sugar and acidity.