2019 Domaine Plageoles ‘Le Braucol’ Gaillac, Southwest

The wines of Gaillac are on the map today as wines of quality due to the hard work and adventurous spirit of the Plageoles family. It all started with Robert Plageoles, who took great pride in bringing back the lost indigenous varieties of the area. He researched and replanted over a dozen varieties indigenous to Gaillac that had all but vanished. Robert did the hard work, often going into the forest to find wild vines growing and going to seed banks to resurrect these grapes. It is a family affair, Robert’s son Bernard continued this work, and now his sons Florent and Romain have taken up the cause of natural wines in Gaillac.  Why do we like it?  Because the Plageoles are one of the oldest winemaking families in the appellation, and they are thoroughly invested in retaining the traditions and have now been receiving well-deserved praise for it. It is the only Braucol wine we have ever tried, and what a surprise! It is a wine showing intense aromas of dark berries, black cherries, and a hint of exotic spice. Subtle earthy undertones add depth and complexity. It feels fragile but absolutely delivers on the palate! Hints of black pepper and a touch of smoky oak carry well-structured tannins providing a solid framework, while vibrant acidity adds freshness and balance. Grape            Braucol Country        France                            Region          Southwest  Vintage         2019