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A palette of traditional grape varieties.
The vine growers of Gaillac have always been careful to select grape varieties best suited to the terrain and exposition. They are typical, specific, with lots of personality.
The Gaillac appellation is quite naturally based on Mauzac and Loin de l'Oeil for the whites and Duras, Braucol... for the reds.
The white grapes : Mauzac and Loin de l'Oeil
Mauzac
is a traditional grape in the appellation. It excels in dry whites, sweet and sparkling wines. Its principal characteristics are apple and pear aromas, giving smooth wines with good acidic balance. This grape is to be found almost only in Gaillac.
Loin de l'Oeil
gets its name from the Occitan "Len de l'El"( “far from the eye”.) In olden days they named it thus because the bunch has a very long stem, and so the grapes are “far from the eye” which produced it (in wine vocabulary the ‘eye’ is a bud). This extremely ancient grape type is only to be found in Gaillac. It gives delicate floral aromas, freshness and suppleness to the wine, and marries well with Mauzac.
The red grapes : Duras, Braucol, Syrah and Gamay
Duras
is one of the oldest existing grape varieties. Brought back into favour 20 years ago, it produces good colour, silkiness and finesse. Characterised principally by peppery and spicy aromas, it is also used in the Gaillac Rosé.
Braucol
otherwise known as Fer Servadou, gives deeply coloured , full bodied and rustic wines. Its aromas, very typical and original, are evocative of blackcurrant, raspberry, crushed leaves and red pepper. The wines can be enjoyed young but also after several years cellaring.
Syrah
(or Shiraz), of Mediterranean origins, thrives on well exposed soils. Astute blending brings structure and good aromatic complexity to the Gaillac wines.
Gamay
is the only grape suitable for the Gaillac Primeur. It grows well in the region and has for some years given national recognition to the appellation.
