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Domaine de Lavabre

Domaine de Lavabre is one of many Languedoc estates that has been rescued from dilapidation following the arrival of an enthusiastic individual. In this case we have to thank Olivier Bridel, from Normandy, a northerly region known more for its apples than for viticulture. It is an ancient property, situated at the foot of the Cevennes mountains, which has existed since Roman times.

The range of wines includes three red cuvées, with plans for the introduction of a white wine as well. The first rung of the ladder is occupied by the straight Domaine de Lavabre, a fruit-dominated and accessible wine which sees only a short period of ageing in tanks. Then comes Les Demoiselles, which sees some oak ageing. On the top rung is Château Lavabre, an impressive Pic St Loup which sees some time in a mixture of new and used oak. All wines use the usual mix of Languedoc varieties, with less Carignan in the better cuvées. (5/1/04)

Contact details:
Address: 34270 Claret
Telephone: +33 (0) 4 67 59 02 25
Fax: +33 (0) 4 67 59 02 39

Domaine de Lavabre - Tasting Notes

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Domaine de Lavabre Coteaux du Languedoc Pic St Loup 'Château Lavabre' 2000: A dark, youthful appearance. An endearing nose, full of dark fruits with a smouldering, singed garrigue note running through it. Behind are more complex notes of roasted meats and animalistic scents, although it requires some time in the glass to open out. The palate has lovely texture, and plenty of interest. Good acidity and a backbone of tannin. What's more, there's some lovely extract apparent. This is delicious now with some air, but will benefit from two to three years in the cellar. 17/20 (January 2004)

Domaine de Lavabre Coteaux du Languedoc Pic St Loup 'Les Demoiselles' 2000: A lovely dark colour. Some sweet, slightly confected (perhaps suggesting carbonic maceration) character on the nose. This is not a criticism though, as there's plenty of roasted herb character, rich black fruits and smouldering charcoal to carry it along. A lovely meaty palate, with plenty of rich, chocolate-edged fruit. Savoury, charcoal, raspberry and loganberry flavour. Elegant yet structured. A ripe tannic backbone. This is a joy to drink. 17+/20 (October 2003)

Domaine de Lavabre Coteaux du Languedoc Pic St Loup 'Les Demoiselles' 1999: Good youthful, slightly cloudy blood red hue. Piles of fruit dominate the nose, led by ripe, plump blueberries and blackberries, with stony, earthy notes more apparent later. On the palate there is a similar abundance of blackcurrant and other berry fruits, with a seam of extract and soft tannins running behind it. Almost a voluptuous mouthfeel, helped by low acidity. I think 1999 is a lighter vintage judging by this wine. This is a delight to drink now, but would improve over the next one to two years in the cellar. 16.5+/20 (January 2004)