Innovation and tradition

Perhaps most indicative of the approach of Domaine Gayda is the fact that all but one (Villa Mon Rêve) of their wines are IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée), rather than AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée). (For those not versed in French wine classification, this is a ‘lower’ classification than AOC. But AOC classification places a number of restrictions upon the winemaker.)  Chansault felt the conditions imposed by the AOC classification were too restrictive, and wished to be able to explore and push the boundaries in his winemaking.

The Domaine has been working biodynamically since 2017, and organically since before that. They adopt an approach that encourages biodiversity, seeing their vineyards as an integral part of the larger surrounding ecosystem.

Their vineyards, however, tend to reflect more traditional, regional grapes, although Chansault has also brought in varieties such as Cabernet Franc from his native Loire. The vineyards are located throughout the Languedoc region, providing access to a variety of terroirs, soil types and microclimates to draw upon in making their wines.

In the winery, Domaine Gayda minimises the use of sulphur, but experiments with a wide range of fermenting vessels to truly bring forth the character of the wines.