Prieuré Saint-Jean de Bébian "Tartuguier" Vin de France Rouge, Languedoc-Roussillon, France 2023

FROM JEFFREY ALPERT:

THE WINE: 70% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache Noir. The name of the cuvee comes from the name of a small stream that runs behind the state. It represents a terroir that surrounds Prieure, i.e. clay interspersed with basalt and flint. Cuvee vinification has a minimum 50% whole-bunch. MLF in old foudres. Elevage is for 12 months in old 32HL tuns.

THE PRODUCER: Prieuré Saint-Jean de Bébian, renowned among Languedoc wine enthusiasts since the 1980s, is experiencing a notable revival with its elegantly crafted wines. Under Benoît Pontenier and guidance from Jura winemaker Jean-François Ganevat, the estate has embraced biodynamic practices, enhancing its winemaking approach. The use of minimal sulfur results in wines of exceptional finesse, both white and red, representing the best of Languedoc.

The estate has a rich history. The story of Prieuré Saint Jean de Bébian goes as far back as the Roman Empire, as the vineyard would have been a prize for winning multiple wars to the centurion Bébianus. The estate was sold to local monks who established a monastery (resulting in the Prieuré name) as well as a a vineyard. In the 1970s, Alain Roux planted top Rhône and Mediterranean varieties, including Syrah from Domaine Chave, Mouvèdre from Domaine Tempier, and Grenache from Château Rayas. It was later acquired in 1994 by former directors of the Revue du Vin de France, Chantal Lecouty and Jean-Claude Brun, who aimed to create robust, sun-kissed wines during a time when Languedoc sought recognition. Since 2015, Benoit Pontenier has revitalized the 19-hectare estate, focusing on grape quality and sustainable practices. Extended maturation, selective harvesting, and minimal intervention have led to wines of remarkable purity and elegant tannins.

NOTE: This bottle is allocated and therefore stock is limited. Discounts do not apply to this product.