Seasons
For every grape grower, each passing season is a cause for speculation and concern through to harvest time. Will nature's elements, in the form of rain, frost, hail and sunshine, unleash their sometimes turbulent but more often beneficial forces in line with the seasonal calendar.
In some ways, we might be likened to mariners whose sails are alternately filled with the great Le Cers wind blowing in from the west or the humidity- and rain-filled gusts of Le Marin.
The rains in autumn and early winter help replenish the land's water reserves while the chilly months of December, January and February offer the vine some welcome respite from periods of frenetic growth. A cool spring delays bud burst and flowering but helps fend off the ravages of frost. A warm, dry summer produces sun-drenched and sugar-rich grapes. As the seasons pass, the alchemy of the land and nature interacts with the grape varieties to express the unique Chateau de Gourgazaud personality. Since 1973, no effort has been spared to ensure that this estate continues producing outstanding wine in keeping with a quality-centred philosophy.
Grape varieties have been carefully selected in accordance with the climate which is closely tied to the lie of the land and the nature of our terroirs. The Syrah variety which dominates the Chateau appellation draws its full aromatic expression from the clay and limestone soil. The high summer temperatures allow them to attain optimum maturity. Being sensitive to cool weather, the Mourvèdre is a low-yield variety which flourishes in high temperatures.
However, the influence of Le Marin charged with humidity and blowing in from the south-east, serves to counter the impact of prolonged dry spells while enabling the grapes to swell.
