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Le Bijou de Sophie Valrose Rouge, Cabrières

Grown from vines of at least 60 years old that sit at between 200 and 450 metres, the region’s micro-climate is significantly cooler than surrounding areas, with its volcanic soil helping to impart minerality, freshness and complexity to its wines. Grapes are hand-harvested, de-stemmed, gently crushed and fermented in stainless steel for up to 20 days. The Syrah and Grenache are vinified separately before being blended together to make Le Bijou de Sophie Valrose Rouge.

Bijou Wines is a partnership between European wine importer Crush Wines and selected growers and producers in the Languedoc.

“In Cabrières, the growers have been selected by Gilles Cantons, one of our winemakers, for their low yields and clean vineyards,” said Chris Ellie, managing director of Crush Wines. “We are working with great growers who tend ancient bush vines with roots going down many metres. Whether or not we achieve minerality is open to question but the unique microclimate and good drainage combined with volcanic soils does give a lovely character.”

The wine’s name makes reference to Sophie Valrose, who fought for women’s rights in the 18th century.