the reclining woman
Mont Caroux in Saint-Chinian is nicknamed “La Femme Allongée” or “The Reclining Woman” because of its noticeable shape that can be seen from the Mediterranean Sea. This young estate started in 2007 by Jean-Paul, with vineyards growing in the shadow of the mountain on parcels of limestone and red clay. The Ancient Greek legend of “La Femme Allongée” tells the tale of the giant Cébenna cast in rocks while sleeping by Zeus’ orders. This mythology is the inspiration for the Domaine’s name.
Before becoming Domaine de la Femme Allongée, Bruno Gracia operated Domaine de Tabatau. Upon Bruno’s retirement, he sold the winery to his nephew Jean-Paul, he now runs the winery under its new name with his son Fabrice. Jean-Paul is an advocate for organic farming the right way, expressing frustration at other “organic” wineries that spray too much copper.
This is a focused but friendly wine with a beautiful balance between fruit, spice, and acidity. The nose is delicate and perfumed, with cherry, raspberry, and red licorice notes. In the mouth the wine is full of sweet red fruit with hints of black pepper and garrigue spice. The finish is soft with very silky ripe tannins. (More details and tech sheet below)