Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Côtes Catalanes IGP
Nikolaus and Carolin Bantlin moved from Germany to the south of France with their young children having never envisioned themselves becoming winemakers. But when the seller of their new property included a clause that they had to take possession of the vineyard with the purchase of their home, they said why not and 23 years later they're producing some of the most amazing wines.
The name of the winery is a combo tribute to the original name of the vineyard and to The Doors and Jim Morrison. The vineyard, originally named "Domaines des Portes", made them think of The Doors (portes = doors in French) and brought them to the song Wild Child aka Enfants Sauvage.
Naming conventions aside, all vineyard work is biodynamic with the goal to produce natural and sincere wine without artifice. Nikolaus and Carolin see the relationship between grower and land as that of love and respect.
A blend of Carignan, Grenache and Mourvèdre coming from five vineyard sites, Mourvèdre and Grenache are vinified together with the late-ripening Carignan vinified separately. This is savoury, spicy, juicy, full of umami, star anise, thyme and tobacco on the nose with a palate full of ripe cherry, red currant jam, juicy plum and a hint of anise/liquorice. Soft, nearly imperceptible tannins with balancing acidity melt away into a smooth, light finish.
Drink with charcuterie, roasted chicken or grilled beef kebabs.