Ventoux 2023 | La Bastide Saint Dominique

Wine Identification
The La Bastide Saint Dominique Ventoux is a red wine from the 2023 vintage, produced by the eponymous estate in France’s Rhône region. The winery was established in 1979 by Gérard and Marie-Claude Bonnet in Courthézon, with vinification managed since 1999 by their son, Éric. The estate holds AB (Agriculture Biologique) organic certification.

Origin and Winemaking
Situated on the southern slope of Mont Ventoux at approximately 450 meters above sea level, the vineyards rest on cretaceous limestone soils characterized by stony debris and alluvial deposits. The grape composition features a blend of 90% Garnacha (Grenache) and 10% Syrah. These grapes are sourced from vines aged between 20 and 35 years. Harvesting is conducted entirely by hand to ensure careful selection of the fruit.

The vinification process is notably modern and minimalist. The wine is fermented and aged exclusively in stainless steel tanks, with no passage through wood. This approach prioritizes freshness and fruit purity over oxidative or oaky influence, resulting in a clean, unadulterated expression of the terroir.

Tasting Profile
As a red wine from the southern Rhône, this blend leverages the warmth of Grenache for body and fruitiness, balanced by the structure and spice of Syrah. The absence of oak aging allows the primary fruit characteristics to remain prominent. The limestone soils contribute to a sense of minerality and freshness, while the high-altitude location helps preserve acidity despite the warm climate. The result is likely a vibrant, approachable wine with clear varietal expression, emphasizing red fruits and earthy notes without the complexity derived from barrel maturation.

Overall Character
This Ventoux represents a straightforward, terroir-driven style typical of modern organic winemaking in the region. By avoiding wood contact and focusing on steel fermentation, La Bastide Saint Dominique highlights the natural qualities of the Grenache-Syrah blend. It offers a fresh and honest reflection of its specific location on the slopes of Mont Ventoux.