The Vieilles Vignes bottling sits in the middle of Domaine Gauby's range, between the approachable Calcinaires and the single site cuvées at the top. It is built on old Macabeu with Grenache Gris and Grenache Blanc, grown on marl and schist in the hills around Calce in Roussillon.
The Gauby family farms roughly forty five hectares of high altitude vineyards in the French Catalan country, where Pyrenean winds do a great deal to preserve freshness. Gérard Gauby pioneered organic and biodynamic farming in the region and the estate has planted extensively to restore biodiversity around the vines. Fermentation is with indigenous yeasts and élevage is unhurried, giving the wine time to build texture before bottling.
This is a white with real depth and grip. Preserved lemon, ripe stone fruit and quince meet dried herbs, almond and a smoky, flinty mineral edge, and the finish is long, dry and saline. It suits richer seafood, roast chicken or hard cheeses, and will reward several years in the cellar.
Vintages may vary. Email us at hello@barrelandbatch.com.au if you would like confirmation.