I always said that the trilogy of red, white and rosé from Domaine de Pellehaut would be good enough to get any fan of New World wine onto drinking Old World. This is where to start whenever you want to try French wine. Experimental blends that work. The white won top blended white at the Paris show two years in a row.

Domaine de Pellehaut is one of the finest independent family producers in Gascony. Situated at the highest point in the district of Montréal-du-Gers (180m above sea level), this farming estate covers 530 hectares of which 220 hectares are planted with vines. It is run in a traditional way by Gason Beraut and his sons, Mathieu and Martin.

The vines are only situated on the slopes, with the lowlands being reserved for cattle and cereal crops. The straw from the local “Blonde d’Aquitaine” cattle (pictured) makes first rate manure for the vines, thus allowing the balance of organic matter to be maintained in the different parcels, whilst limiting the use of synthetic fertilisers. A stellar range, whether you’re an Old World disciple, or just looking to broaden your palate.

Domaine de Pellehaut Blanc: Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Colombard, Gros Menseng, Ugni Blanc.

Domaine de Pellehaut Rouge: Merlot, Tannat, Cabernet.

Domaine de Pellehaut Rosé: Merlot, Tannat.

Domaine de Pellehaut Ampelomeryx: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Petit et Gros Manseng.

Click here to view a recent post on Domaine de Pellehaut’s Ampelomeryx.