“Freestyle”, a white IGP Pays d’Oc off the beaten track

By Antonio MAFRA

Founded in 2003 by three enthusiasts who met in South Africa, Domaine Gayda is shaking things up in a Languedoc vineyard that has seen it all before. And happily so.

Vincent Chansault works his way through a multiplicity of grape varieties, breaking the mould. DR
Vincent Chansault has been at the helm of this 90-hectare organic farm since 2011. Planted with Loire Valley grape varieties such as Chenin and Cabernet Franc, parcel-based vinification, sulfite levels half the organic specification, eggs, barrels, small and large containers – the trio’s Frenchie dares all.

This openness is reflected in some twenty cuvées covering a wide range of tastes. Perhaps you’ve heard of “Chemin de Moscou”, the vintage that brought them to light? This blend of old Syrah plots with Grenache and a hint of Cinsault has toured the world (€22.50).

We succumbed to “Figure libre Freestyle”, an IGP pays d’oc vintage 2019. A blend of grenache blanc and gris (50%), maccabeu (25%), marsanne (15%) and roussanne, this cuvée seduces with its aromatic nuances of white fruits, honeysuckle and jasmine, with a hint of aniseed. The combination of pronounced acidity and discreet woodiness is expressed in this white wine with a feminine character.

Enjoy it as an aperitif, but not too chilled to fully appreciate its delicacy and complexity. At the table, this cuvée, aged twelve months on lees, goes well with simply cooked fish, flavored with a drizzle of olive oil, or even octopus salad served with grilled peppers.

Price: €12

ARTICLE – LE DAUPHINÉ