Les Vignerons d'Estézargues

The cooperative winery in Estézargues was founded in 1965, and is currently comprised of 10 growers with nearly 1,000 acres under vines in the Côtes du Rhône and its "Villages" Appellation "Signargues". Where many traditional cooperatives have struggled to survive in the face of dwindling French wine consumption and fierce international competition, Estézargues has thrived. In the 1990's, they took a bold, new, quality-oriented approach in their operations, vinifying lots from different members separately to preserve the individuality of the growers' respective wines. Rather than selling large quantities of blended wine at low prices on the bulk market, as many cooperatives did, Estézargues shifted largely to sales in bottle of high-quality, terroir-driven wines. The new model has been extremely successful, with Estézargues enjoying a period of spectacular growth since 1995.

Vineyards are planted on terraces at about 430 feet above sea-level (on average), in iron-red soils with an abundance of the round galets (stones) that are characteristic of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape area. The climate is classically Mediterranean: hot and dry, with a strong influence of the Mistral, the famous wind that blows through the Rhône Valley to the Mediterranean. Farming practices are certified sustainable by the Terra Vitis organization.

Though Estézargues uses new equipment and modern techniques (particularly temperature controls), a strict, non-interventionalist approach is taken in the cellar. Only indigenous yeasts are used and there is no addition of sugar, acids or enzymes. Fermentations are long and slow (2 to 4 weeks), and take place in tank at cool temperatures (about 68°F) to preserve freshness and fruit. The wines are bottled without fining and filtration for added complexity.

A pioneer recognized for the consistent quality and individuality of its wines, Estézargues has become a treasure among those who know and love Rhône wines - it doesn't get much better than this!