In a quest for the perfect Riesling, Reinhard Brundig, film producer and passionate wine expert, discovered, by chance, Marc Tempe’s wines from Alsace.

This meeting marked the beginning of a beautiful friendship. From their impassioned discussion the project of producing a red wine that would honor their motto “life is too short to drink bad wine” was born.

In 2002 they found Domaine de Courbissac, the perfect estate to realize their idea in the region of Minervois, between Narbonne and Carcassonne.  “Long term, the Minervois has probably the best potential of all Appellations in the Languedoc-Roussillon region.” (Robert M. Parker). The land, covering approx. 75 acres, is situated in the best part of the Cru, “La Livinière”. The ripening of the grapes (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Carignan) benefits from the ideal climatic conditions of this region.

The viticulture follows biodynamic principles. This method, which respects the environment, allows the vines and the soil to play the leading parts in a story that speaks about the “expression du terroir”. This is reflected in the quality of the grapes and the full-bodied wines show the complexity of limestone soil and the richness of the environment, full of colors and flavors. The wines are created from this special alchemy, which unites human hearts, the soil and the vines.

This wine needs to be decanted before drinking.  Earthy, spicy, brooding, mysterious, but as it breathes, full of black fruit, white pepper, and smoky goodness that is a perfect expression of what this region has to offer.  The wine is made from 60% Carignan, 20% Cinsault and 20% Grenache.  Try it with roast rabbit, daube, olives, and cheese.  Drink now – 2014