Domaine des Creisses, located in Valros, Languedoc, is a true gem producing limited quantities of exceptional red wines. Situated halfway between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains, just 25 minutes from the Mediterranean shores and a few kilometres west of Languedoc’s historic capital, Pézenas, the estate benefits from an ideal Mediterranean climate.
The family property, established in the 19th century, had made wine in its own cellar by many generations for over 110 years. In 1998, it was bought by Philippe Chesnelong, a lawyer by training. Since then, the estate has garnered admiration from sommeliers across France, where most of the wine is sold. Philippe is ably assisted in vinification and maturation by his cousin Louis Mitjavile (Domaine de l'Aurage), son of the legendary winemaker François Mitjavile of Tetre Rotebeouf fame.
Operating under a sustainable charter, the property recently achieved High Environmental Value (HVE) certification and employs organic principles. It spans two distinct vineyards. Les Creisses, the original 11-hectare vineyard, consists of a stony-clay limestone plateau with deep soils, now expanded by a further 20 hectares which includes slopes of Villafranchian gravel as part of a single plot interspersed with woods and garrigue.
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.
Les Creisses IGP Pays de l’Hérault 2020
Grapes: Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Carignan, Mourvèdre, Marselan Alicante
Winemaking:
Les Creisses is a complex blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Carignan, Mourvèdre, and Marselan Alicante, crafted from vineyards located on stony-clay limestone soils. The diverse grape varieties are hand-harvested and vinified separately, allowing for the unique character of each varietal to develop. The wine is aged in a combination of concrete vats and oak barrels to preserve freshness while adding complexity. This careful balance ensures the wine retains a vibrant, silky texture despite its density.
Sight:
A deep ruby hue with purple highlights, hinting at the wine’s concentration and youthful vibrancy.
Nose:
The nose offers an aromatic festival of dark forest fruits—blackberries, plums, and blackcurrants—enriched with notes of spice, pepper, and earthy garrigue. Subtle hints of violets and herbs emerge, adding a layer of complexity to the bouquet.
Palate:
On the palate, Les Creisses is dense yet fresh, with flavours of dark berries, ripe plums, and a touch of liquorice. The wine's silky texture is balanced by vibrant acidity and soft, well-integrated tannins. Notes of spice and garrigue add complexity, while a delicate minerality provides depth, leading to a long, elegant finish.
Food Match:
This wine pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, Mediterranean dishes, and hearty stews. Its freshness and complexity also make it a great match for dishes with herbs and spices, such as lamb with rosemary or roasted vegetables.
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