La Croix de Saint Jean
La Croix de Saint Jean was established in 2004 by Michel Fabre, a...
grape grower and winemaker (also winemaker at Villa Baulieu). Three generations of Michel’s family, his father Robert and his son Alexis, are involved in the business. The wines are aptly named the father, ‘Lo Paire’, and the child, ‘Lo Mainatge’, in Occitan to reflect this.
Vineyards
The Fabre family specifically selected schist, limestone and clay soils on the slopes of the Black Mountain at different altitudes (80-300 metres) to plant their vineyards. This north east corner of the Minervois appellation, known as Les Causses, is slightly cooler, bringing freshness and delicate aromatics to the wines. They have 18 hectares planted with Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre and the vineyards are sustainably farmed.
Vintage Information
A very dry winter in the Minervois gave way to rain in the spring and into the summer. This redressed the water balance and avoided undue stress in the vineyards. Hot weather through July and August helped ripen the fruit although September was quite humid and fruit was picked at a little less maturity, although still eleven days later than 2011. The fruit delivered good balance but with a little less concentration. Fruit was picked between the 15th September and 10th October.
Vinification
Fruit was hand-picked and fermented in a mix of cement and stainless steel to retain its primary fruit. Maceration and fermentation took between 20 and 25 days.
Tasting Notes
Deep red in the glass with a very expressive nose of raspberry perfumes. Fresh and sweet fruit on the juicy palate complement silky tannins and a subtle spice in this youthful wine, perfect for drinking now.
Vintage Information
| Vintage | 2012 |
| Grape varieties | 70% Grenache/Garnacha 30% Syrah/Shiraz |
| Region | Minervois, Languedoc |
| Winemaker | Michel Fabre |
| Alcohol (ABV) | 14.5% |
Trade customers
Liberty Wines customers can order this wine directly from us.