# Cuvée Larmande

- **Producer:** Gérald Et Jocelyne Oustric
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Syrah
- **Region:** Ardèche, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €13
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 17–19 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, black pepper

## About this wine

Gérald and Jocelyne Oustric, operating as Domaine du Mazel, are pioneering natural winemakers in Valvignères, Ardèche, France. This brother and sister team are renowned for their commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking. Their philosophy centers on respecting the soil and the plant, cultivating their 22-hectare property with old vines on calcareous and clay-limestone soils. They have been certified "Agriculture Biologique" (Organic Agriculture) since 2002, reflecting their dedication to ecological farming practices. Cuvée Larmande embodies their vision, showcasing the unique terroir of Valvignères through a pure expression of Syrah.

## Interesting facts

- Gérald and Jocelyne Oustric are pioneers of natural winemaking in France's Ardèche region.
- Their entire 22-hectare vineyard has been certified organic since 2002.
- Cuvée Larmande is made without any added sulfites, a hallmark of natural winemaking.
- All wine movement during production is done by gravity, avoiding pumps.

## Food pairing

The concentrated fruit, fresh acidity, and round tannins of this Syrah make it incredibly versatile. Its ripe red fruit and black pepper notes beautifully complement savory dishes, especially those with rich meats or umami flavors. The wine's freshness helps to cut through the richness of braised dishes, while its structure stands up to grilled and roasted preparations. The natural winemaking approach often results in a vibrant character that pairs well with a range of ingredients, from hearty beef to lighter tuna preparations, as long as the flavors are complementary and not overly delicate or sweet.

## Wine making process

The winemaking for Cuvée Larmande is a testament to natural wine principles. Gérald and Jocelyne Oustric meticulously manage their vineyards organically, avoiding chemical weedkillers, insecticides, anti-rot treatments, and chemical fertilizers. They aim for small yields to ensure healthy, balanced grapes, which are harvested manually in small boxes. The vinification process involves whole bunches and semi-carbonic maceration, utilizing 100% indigenous yeasts for fermentation. No added chemicals, vitamins, or enzymes are used. All wine movement is achieved by gravity, eliminating the need for pumping. Crucially, the wines are made without any added sulfites, preserving the natural character of the fruit and terroir.