Coming Fall 2016
The Domaine:
"Two generations have rallied the tradition of a country and modernity in order to offer a full range of genuine products."
The Domaine de Magnaut is an independent vigneron which lies in northwest Gascony in the town of Fources. This family estate consists of a vineyard of 40 hectares with rich and varied terroirs. Jean-Marie Terraube brings years of professional experience acquired in different vineyards to create a range Côtes de Gascogne wines. All domain products regularly receive awards.
History:
In the 1970's, Pierre Terraube produced the first Armagnac of the domaine, vintages of which are stored in their cellars.
In 2000, second generation owner, Jean-Marie Terraube decided to revive the traditions and techniques needed to produce quality Côtes de Gascogne wines, with the necessity of adapting to different types of soils.
Terroir:
The 40 hectares of vineyards are composed of 80% white grape varieties (Colombard, Ugni Blanc, Gros and Petit Manseng, and Sauvignon Blanc and Gris). Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Tannat cover the remaining vineyards.
The hillsides of fine clay favor the white grapes.
The red vines are planted on clay-limestone plateaus, whose exposure promotes generous and powerful wines.
Jean-Marie Terraube practices environmentally-friendly techniques to ensure the quality of both wines and soil.
Production:
The domaine sells 100,000 bottles each year.
Awards:
The wines have received numerous recognitions and awards from competitions such as: Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, Concours Général Agricole de Paris, Concours des Vignerons Indépendants de France, Concours National ANIVIT, as well as recognition in guides such as Hachette and others.
Côtes de Gascogne Wines are regulated by an official syndicate. They explain the Côtes de Gascogne wines thus:
Since 1st August 2009, Côtes de Gascogne has been registered as an Indications Géographiques Protégées (IGP) and as with all IGP, the production conditions and standards are defined by an official decree and specifications defining the production conditions and the standards to be respected (production zone, varieties, vinification, yields, analytical standards, etc.).
In addition to controls related to production conditions and with respect of analytical standards, all IGP Côtes de Gascogne are taste controlled by the Organisme De Gestion (O.D.G) that relies on a trained panel of experts.
The Côtes de Gascogne region is in the heart of the Armagnac region, as such many vineyards producing wines also produce small batches of Armagnac, often for local consumption.
Appellation: IGP Côtes de Gascogne
Grape variety: 100% Syrah
Vintage: 2017
Alcohol: 11.5%
Color: Light garnet with violet highlights
Bouquet: Fresh and fruity with aromas of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries.
Palate: Fresh and acidic with notes of red fruits.
Serving Suggestions: Serve at about 65 degrees. Pairs well with cold entrées, charcuterie, paella, and vegetable tarts.
Euphorie de Rosé should be consumed young to appreciate its freshness, within 2 years.
Note: The grapes are planted in limestone-clay soil most suited to red wines. The grapes are harvested in October. The rosé wine is obtained by separating the must from the grapes.
Appellation: IGP Côtes de Gascogne
Grape variety: 100% Merlot
Vintage: 2015
Alcohol: 12%
Color: Strawberry with violet highlights
Bouquet: Fresh and fruity with subtle aromas of red fruits.
Palate:Generous, round with notes of cherries, supple tannins and a long finish.
Serving Suggestions: Serve at about 65 degrees. Pairs well with grilled red meat, rib eye, steaks and hard cheeses.