Les Bancèls is an organic certified red Faugères AOP wine, representing the very identity of Cébène.
Terroir and Vineyard
The wine comes from exceptional north-facing vineyards in the schist rocks of upper Faugères, at 300m above sea level and close to higher mountains (1100m). The vines are deeply rooted in the schist. The vineyard comprises north-facing Syrah hills (called bancèls), Grenache slopes, and south-facing Mourvèdre.
Winemaking Process
Grapes are handpicked in small crates from each parcel at strategic times. The custom-built cellar is dug into the rocks, allowing for gravity-fed processing. Each section of a parcel is vinified separately using indigenous yeasts, with no added sulfites during vinification. The winemaker employs soft pigeage techniques and controls temperature. The wine is aged for 12 months without oak.
Wine Characteristics
Les Bancèls has an alcohol content of approximately 13.5%. It offers pure and specific schist aromas, with notes of graphite, licorice, cloves, and garrigue spices. The palate presents an explosion of black fruit flavors, garrigue spices, and delicate tobacco notes after aeration. The wine is described as lively, powerful yet elegant, with fine yet coated tannins and stunning minerality.
Tasting Notes and Pairing
This wine reveals the identity and purity of its exceptional terroir without artifice. It's characterized by its personality, vitality, and persistence, potentially ranking it among the great Languedoc wines. Les Bancèls pairs well with lamb shoulder, finely peppered beef, truffle risotto, or aubergine caviar.