Iconic estate in the Hérault, Languedoc producing extraordinary wines.
Vineyards
"Les Creisses" 2022 is crafted from grapes sourced from the estate's distinctive vineyards in Valros, Languedoc. The terroir comprises a blend of Villafranchian gravel terraces and clay-limestone soils, interspersed with woods and garrigue, contributing to the wine's unique character. The family property spans 30 hectares, including the original 11-hectare plateau and additional slopes, benefiting from a Mediterranean climate that fosters optimal grape maturity.
Winemaking
The 2022 vintage is a complex blend of 30% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Grenache, 5% Carignan, 5% Mourvèdre, and 5% Marselan Alicante. Each varietal is hand-harvested and vinified separately to highlight its unique character. The wine undergoes a cuvaison of 20 days with fully destemmed grapes, followed by aging for 15 to 18 months, from December 2022 to May 2024, in a combination of concrete vats and oak barrels. This process balances freshness and complexity, resulting in a vibrant, silky texture despite its density.
Appearance
Deep ruby hue with purple highlights, indicating concentration and youthful vibrancy.
Nose
An aromatic array of dark forest fruits—blackberries, plums, and blackcurrants—enriched with notes of spice, pepper, and earthy garrigue. Subtle hints of violets and herbs add complexity to the bouquet.
Palate
Dense yet fresh, showcasing flavours of dark berries, ripe plums, and a touch of liquorice. The silky texture is balanced by vibrant acidity and soft, well-integrated tannins. Notes of spice and garrigue enhance complexity, while a delicate minerality provides depth, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Food Pairing
Pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, Mediterranean dishes, and hearty stews. Its freshness and complexity also complement dishes with herbs and spices, such as lamb with rosemary or roasted vegetables.
Background Story
Domaine des Creisses, located in Valros, Languedoc, is a family-owned estate established in the 19th century. For over 110 years, it has vinified wines in its Languedoc cellar. In 1998, Philippe Chesnelong took over the family vineyard with the ambition to express the best of its terroir and reveal a great Mediterranean wine. He is assisted by his cousin, Louis Mitjavile (Domaine de l'Aurage), son of the legendary winemaker François Mitjavile of Tetre Rotebeouf fame, who contributes his expertise in vinification and aging.
The estate operates under a sustainable charter, achieving High Environmental Value (HVE) certification and employing organic principles. The vineyards are managed with short pruning on old wood—gobelet for old Grenache and Royat for other vines—to optimize foliage arrangement, ensuring airy, disease-free, ripe, and flavourful fruit. Winter cover crops reduce tractor passes, favouring soil life and promoting deep rooting for consistent water uptake.
The originality of Domaine des Creisses lies in its unique terroir: white and red quartz pebbles, fragments of schist, deep and outcropping limestone, and basalt lava rock, interpreted by a vinous poet and alchemist.
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