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
The 2013 vintage was problematic across France but happily the Languedoc fared better than most regions. There was hail and wet weather at flowering but the damage tended to be localised - the Languedoc authorities even went out of their way to announce that there had been some 320 days of sunshine in the Languedoc, unlike elsewhere! What saved the day was the long summer which stretched into October, with picking up to three weeks later than usual in places. Cooler winds at night kept the fruit fresh, and the occasional rain was not a hindrance.
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 | 2013 |
| Grape varieties | |
| Region | Minervois, Languedoc |
| Winemaker | Michel Fabre |
| Alcohol (ABV) | 14.5% |
| Acidity | 4.87g/l |
| Residual Sugar | 1g/l |
| Wine pH | 3.73 |
Trade customers
Liberty Wines customers can order this wine directly from us.