In the family since 1840, Domaine Coudoulet is an ancient estate in the village
of Cesseras run by the affable and talented Pierre-Andre Ournac. The estate
has 45 hectares of vineyards with poor, stony soil and very low yields. The
vines are 12-18 years old. In the last 20 years, the vineyards have been
replanted to noble varieties. Syrah now represents the majority of their
production, with some Grenache, Carignan and Mourvedre to blend in for complexity.
The clusters are completely destemmed and temperature-controlled maceration
lasts for four weeks. A gentle, new pneumatic press is used to produce musts
without harsh acids and tannins. Elevage for La Livinière is a mixture of
new and old barrels and tank giving the benefit of barrel aging for texture
and structure. The elevage for Cuvée Olric is done in tank and emphasizes
bright, fresh fruit character. Much care is taken for both wines to preserve
the freshness of the fruit aromas and flavors. The wines are particularly
delicious and forward with lush, round tannins.
