Gérard Bertrand : Cigalus 2022

Characteristics and tasting notes for Cigalus 2022

Tasting

Colour
The colour reveals an intense ruby red, enhanced by delicate mahogany hues.

Nose
The aromatic bouquet expresses great maturity through notes of very ripe black fruits, such as blackberry, black cherry and plum. The whole is harmoniously underscored by hints of toasted spices and elegant oak.

Palate
Opulent and generous, the palate seduces with velvety, perfectly integrated tannins. The mid-palate, wonderfully broad, unfolds fruity and spicy flavours that stretch into a long, subtly minty finish.

Food and wine pairing
This wine pairs perfectly with roasted red meats, poultry served with a wine-based sauce, or full-flavoured aged cheeses such as Comté. It also goes wonderfully with dishes flavoured with Mediterranean herbs, mushrooms and grilled vegetables.

Service and storage
To fully appreciate Cigalus 2022, it is recommended to serve it at 16°C. This wine has excellent aging potential, allowing it to develop even more complexity over time.

The biodynamic excellence of the Domaine de Cigalus in the Languedoc

The estate
Acquired in 1995 by the former rugby player turned winemaker, the Domaine de Cigalus is today run by Gérard Bertrand, its current owner. Located in the Languedoc, this estate has become a true emblem of biodynamic viticulture. Driven by a deep environmental conviction, the estate has been fully converted and is Demeter-certified. Combining innovation with tradition, Gérard Bertrand crafts exceptional cuvées here that express all the richness and complexity of this southern French terroir, establishing the estate as one of the region's key references.

The vineyard
Spanning 75 hectares within the IGP Pays d'Oc, the vineyard benefits from the unique microclimate of Fontfroide, cooled by natural springs. The old vines, over fifteen years old, thrive on deep soils composed of calcareous sandstone covered with well-draining sand and clay. Farmed biodynamically with controlled yields and hand harvesting, this semi-arid terroir allows for optimal berry ripening.

The vintage
The year 2022 stood out for its warm climatic conditions, typical of this semi-arid terroir. This weather allowed the berries to reach perfect physiological maturity, favouring a beautiful concentration of aromas and tannins.

Winemaking and aging
For the Cigalus 2022 cuvée, each grape variety is vinified separately. The Syrah and Carignan undergo whole-bunch carbonic maceration to extract colour and suppleness, while the other varieties are destemmed for traditional maceration. The juices are then transferred into new 225-litre French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation and aging. Blending takes place in February, followed by at least a year of bottle aging before release.

Grape varieties
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Grenache, Caladoc, Carignan.