# Château L'Hospitalet La Reserve (2023)

- **Producer:** Gérard Bertrand
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Carignan
- **Region:** Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €18
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** strawberry, red cherry, blackberry, black currant, vanilla, cloves, leather, earth, tobacco

## About this wine

Château L'Hospitalet La Reserve is a red wine from the AOP La Clape in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France, produced by Gérard Bertrand. The wine is a blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and potentially Carignan, reflecting the unique terroir of La Clape. This area is characterized by a dry, sunny Mediterranean climate and limestone-rich soils, influenced by its proximity to the sea. Gérard Bertrand is a prominent figure in the region, known for his dedication to biodynamic viticulture, which he believes best expresses the nuances of the land. The 2023 vintage was notably dry and hot, leading to low yields and concentrated fruit, suggesting a powerful and intense wine.

## Interesting facts

- La Clape was once an island, shaped by ancient geological forces.
- Gérard Bertrand is a pioneer in biodynamic viticulture in the Languedoc.
- The 2023 vintage experienced drought and heat, leading to concentrated grapes.
- The region's soils are rich in limestone, contributing to minerality.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and velvety tannins are well-suited to rich, protein-heavy dishes, where they can complement the texture and cut through fattiness. The dark fruit and spice notes in the wine harmonize with roasted meats and earthy flavors, while the minerality can balance richer sauces.

## Wine making process

Château L'Hospitalet La Reserve is crafted using traditional winemaking techniques, with a focus on expressing the unique La Clape terroir. The Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre grapes are typically vinified separately to highlight their individual qualities. Fermentation is carefully managed to control extraction and build structure. Following fermentation, the wine is usually aged in oak barrels, which imparts complexity and softens the tannins, contributing to its velvety texture. The 2023 vintage's dry and hot conditions led to concentrated fruit and low yields, a key factor in the wine's final profile. Gérard Bertrand's overarching philosophy emphasizes biodynamic farming, aiming for wines that are a pure reflection of their origin.