Domaine du Pas de l'Escalette - IGP Hérault Les Clapas blanc 2023

Bettane & Desseauve

About the estate:

Julien Zernott and Delphine Rousseau acquired this vineyard in 2002; it is laid out in terraces surrounded by dry stone walls. Perched at an altitude of 350 meters across some twenty hectares at the foot of the Larzac plateau, the vines are cultivated organically, bathed in a cool, windy microclimate and benefiting from the limestone scree terroir of the Causse and the area’s rich biodiversity. The common thread here is freshness, made possible by the vineyard’s altitude; it is found in every cuvée, without exception, making this an exceptional estate among the terraces of Larzac that strikes the perfect balance between freshness and structure. This estate is a sure bet and a must-visit; we have no regrets about the third star recently awarded and see constant improvements even in the entry-level wines.

Guide des Vins Gault & Millau

About the estate:

The Domaine du Pas de l’Escalette has 20 hectares of biodynamic vineyards, planted on terraces bordered by dry stone walls known as “clapas.” It is perched at an altitude of 350 meters in the foothills of the Larzac. Julien Zernott and Delphine Rousseau settled there in 2003. Drawing on the rich biodiversity of the surrounding area and using exclusively organic products, they cultivate the vineyard using methods that respect nature.

RVF - La Revue du Vin de France / Guide des Meilleurs Vins de France

About the wine:

The white Clapas, a perfect reflection of the vintage, still displays that lovely mineral aroma, with a soft, delicate palate.

About the estate:

Located in the northwest of the Terrasses du Larzac, in the beautiful region of Pégairolles de l'Escale and Lauroux, this 20-hectare estate is owned by Julien and Delphine Zernott, who have been based here since 2003. The vineyard comprises some fifty terraces on limestone scree, with a high proportion of very old vines. This terroir is in good hands with this talented and determined couple. While the whites confirm their great elegance, the entire range of reds presented this year is of the highest caliber—graceful, with exemplary management of texture and aging.

Jeb Dunnuck

About the wine:

Pale lemon in color, it is fairly subtle on the nose but opens up on the palate with notes of lemon, quite lively and crisp. It lacks length on the finish (its only weakness), but it is well-structured with a hint of phenolic notes. Very easy to pair, I recommend it with raw or cooked fish and shellfish, or pan-seared scallops. A white wine with a lovely mineral character, both light and structured. Best enjoyed between 2025 and 2032.