Summer Delights Salad & Languedoc Rosé Wine

To bring out the flavours of a summer salad, our experts suggest a precision rosé wine from Gérard Bertrand, made from the unique terroir of Languedoc Cabrières AOC, in the Languedoc-Roussillon vineyards. Backed by the Pic du Vissou and set on the schist scree of the Cabrières scales, the production area of this appellation rises to an altitude of around 480 metres. The jewel of the appellation, Le Clos du Temple is a gourmet rosé that perfectly reflects the terroir of Cabrières. The first vineyard to produce AOC rosés in the Coteaux du Languedoc, this terroir, which is subject to a Mediterranean climate, is made up of an outcrop of laminated schist, which favours penetration and retains rainwater. The terroir is laid out in successive terraces with a south-south-west exposure, and is also made up of steeply sloping limestone soils. The geology of the Monts de Cabrières has created a cirque-shaped site of great beauty and a terroir renowned for the distinctive character of its wines. These geological formations give this wine a natural balance, guaranteeing its freshness and longevity.

In addition to its unique terroir, this gourmet rosé owes its exceptional qualities to precision work at every stage of production. After being hand-picked from each plot, the grapes are transported to the winery. Transport time is kept to a minimum, as the winery is located in the heart of the vineyard. The next step is to select the best juice. To preserve the aromas and freshness of the wines, and avoid colouring the juice, the grapes are cold-pressed (5°C). The juice is then settled for 24 hours at a controlled temperature of 8 to 10°C, without the addition of sulphur. Fermentation begins in stainless steel vats lined with bauxite in the winery. The Clos du Temple rosé is then matured for seven months in demi-muids (Cinsault and Grenache) and barrels, 50% of which are new and toasted differently (Mourvèdre, Syrah and Viognier). Gérard Bertrand, assisted by Ghislain Coux and Charmian Moulin, then blends the wine. This process is carried out on a fruit day, according to the biodynamic astral calendar, which is favourable for tasting. At this stage, the aim is to find the perfect balance between colours, aromas and textures to create a harmonious wine with a high level of expression of the terroir. A bottle costs around £175.

To reinforce the balance between the vines and their environment, Gérard Bertrand has opted for biodynamic viticulture at Clos du Temple. Guaranteeing symbiosis with nature, this method of cultivation guarantees the authenticity of the terroir, which is reflected in this prestigious rosé wine. This plant-friendly viticulture allows the grapes to draw their resources from the terroir and the different layers of soil. They do not ripen thanks to chemical fertilisers, but to the rich organic life of the soil. Biodynamic viticulture produces grapes that are concentrated in sugar, vitamins and trace elements, guaranteeing a wine that is balanced, fruity and deep. At Clos du Temple, Gérard Bertrand meticulously adheres to strict specifications. To make this rosé wine, the winemaker recommends natural vine care and optimising light. To encourage the connection between plants, minerals, animals and humans, animal traction (a mule) is used to work the soil. Respect for the various principles of biodynamic viticulture has enabled Clos du Temple to obtain Demeter certification.

According to Gérard Bertrand, founder of the eponymous brand, creating his wines is an alchemy. And Clos du Temple rosé perfectly matches his ambitions, which are reflected in four clear values:

• The exaltation of excellence: to achieve this, Gérard Bertrand applies traditional know-how in an enlightened and inspired way, and with remarkable precision. To achieve and exalt excellence, his winemaking expertise is based on preserving old vines, cultivating the soil and harvesting the grapes by hand. He also strives to create alchemy in the blends, striking a subtle balance between local and international grape varieties.
• The preservation of biodiversity: Gérard Bertrand is committed to passing on to future generations a natural, human and spiritual heritage that fosters harmony and resilience. The result is a contemporary and ambitious wine brand.
• The invention of the future: Gérard Bertrand aims to create new experiences and moments around wine. To achieve this, he is inspired by the needs and desires of markets and consumers alike.
• The celebration of an art of living: for Gérard Bertrand, this art of living is marked by authenticity, sharing, simple emotions and good living. The brand strives to create a link between the wines of its estates, gastronomy and art in all its forms.