The Minervois vineyard is recognized as one of the most important in the Languedoc AOC wine family and its appellation area one of the largest. Its prestige is attested by its classification among the Great Wines of Languedoc since 1985. Stretching from Narbonne to Carcassonne, it is bordered to the south by the Canal du Midi and to the north by the majestic Montagne Noire. Its relief varies considerably, with altitudes ranging from 50 meters near the Canal du Midi and the Aude to more than 500 meters on the mountain foothills.

The Minervois vineyard is located in a Mediterranean-type climate zone , characterized by hot and dry summers, but still protected from the north winds by the Montagne Noire. It is swept by, among others, the famous Tramontane, the Cers and the Marin, for 300 to 350 days a year. Today, out of an area of ​​nearly 15,000 hectares of vines, 4,000 hectares are dedicated to the production of three distinct Protected Designations of Origin : the AOP Minervois (since 1985), the AOP La Livinière (since 1999) and the AOP Muscat de Saint-Jean-de-Minervois (since 1948).

The Minervois terroir offers a great diversity of characteristics , which contributes to the richness of its appellation. It includes the balconies of the Aude, the Causse, the Mourels, the Petit Causse and the Terrasses. Minervois wines are mainly made from several grape varieties , such as Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Cinsault and Mourvèdre. With a dark and intense color, these wines develop aromas of red or candied fruits, wild berries, and even violets. In addition, the appellation also produces some rosé and white wines that use a multitude of grape varieties, highlighting Bourboulenc, Grenache and Roussanne.

The village of La Livinière gives its name to the appellation recognized in 1999. The AOC Minervois-La Livinière is considered the premier cru of Languedoc . It brings together the wines produced in five communes located around the village, in the Petit-Causse region (Azillanet, Cesseras, Félines-Minervois, La Livinière and Siran). The rules of this appellation are stricter than those of Minervois. Indeed, it exclusively concerns the production of red wines aged for at least 15 months before bottling. Its wines are described as complex, powerful and warm, but balanced, evolving on spicy notes of cooked or candied fruits with hints of vanilla or cocoa when aged in oak barrels.

As for the AOP Muscat de Saint-Jean-de-Minervois (the only one among the muscats that is not located by the sea), it only concerns the Vins Doux Naturels produced from a single grape variety, Muscat à petits grains . The accumulated heat favors the maturation of the aromatic compounds of the grape, these wines are distinguished by their aromas of exotic fruits, citrus fruits and white-fleshed fruits.

Discover the Gérard Bertrand AOP Minervois La Lavinière range of wines .

Gérard Bertrand Heritage wine "An 873" - Minervois

Gérard Bertrand, known for highlighting the history of the great terroirs of the South of France , unveils with the cuvée Héritage "An 873" an emblematic wine that embodies all the richness of the Minervois terroir. It takes its name from the Château de Minerve, and pays homage to the Roman goddess of wisdom.

For this vintage, the grapes are harvested exclusively by hand . After a carefully destemmed harvest, the grape varieties are vinified separately in order to preserve and express their full potential. After malolactic fermentation in vats, the different grape varieties are blended, and the wine is then aged in Bordeaux barrels for around 8 months. This aging process adds subtle nuances and refines the aromas. After a light fining and bottling, the wine is then kept for several months before being marketed. This maturation period contributes to the development of the wine, allowing it to fully develop its character.

In the glass, the cuvée Héritage “An 873” reveals a dark red color , attracting the eye. On the nose, an intense and complex bouquet unfolds, revealing captivating notes of blackcurrant, liquorice and peppery cocoa. On the palate, the experience is both rich and intense, with pure and complex flavors of black fruits and fresh spices that blend harmoniously. The finish, meanwhile, is long and smooth, leaving a lasting impression.

To fully appreciate this wine, it is recommended to taste it at a temperature of 18 ° C. It goes perfectly with grilled red meats , highlighting their robust flavors, as well as with mature cheeses that will reveal new taste harmonies.

The “An 873” Heritage vintage thus embodies Gérard Bertrand’s excellence and passion for promoting the terroirs of the south of France, offering wine lovers an exceptional sensory experience with every sip.

Buy the wine Gérard Bertrand Héritage "An 873" - Minervois 2019 .