The history of the Santa Duc Estate
One family, six generations, and two appellations.
The Gras family settled in 1874 inGigondasThis vineyard has been renowned since Gallo-Roman times. In 1985, the estate took a new turn thanks to Yves Gras. His wines caught the attention of Robert Parker, who praised them. In his quest for excellence, he acquired some very high-quality plots of land inChâteauneuf-du-PapeHe is also carrying out major renovation work in the vineyards, particularly on a forgotten walled vineyard: the futureClosed behind Vieille.
Humble and passionate,Yves Grasis building a great reputation atGigondasby embodying a modern vision. He chooses agriculturebiologicaland seeks to express the terroir's unique characteristics in the purest way possible. Benjamin Gras embodies the new generation and arrives at the estate after several experiences at prestigious properties around the world. For him too, working in harmony with nature is a priority. He is converting the entire vineyard tobiodynamicsas early as 2016!
The Dentelles de Montmirail, the cradle of the estate's vineyards
Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the spotlight
Each generation has developed the property and its vineyard. Originally, the plots were located on very fine parcels of the plateau ofGigondasIn the 1980s, the vineyard also expanded into the Crau area, under the renowned appellation ofChâteauneuf-du-PapeThe vineyard now comprises several plots on high-quality terroirs within these two appellations. Today, the vineyard covers 21 hectares of vines in the heart of a breathtaking setting: the Dentelles de Montmirail.
The typical grape varieties of the region thrive perfectly:Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Cinsault.Mass selection is carried out to preserve the essence of each of these varieties. Since 2016, Benjamin Gras has chosen organic farming.biodynamicsPlot by plot, meticulous care is given to the vine so that it reveals all the splendor of its terroir.
Wines that reflect their terroirs, magnificent!
Hidden gems to discover
In the cellar, the two winemakers favor minimal intervention winemaking. They capture the purity and fundamental characteristics of their terroirs in their exceptional wines. To achieve this, a portion of whole clusters is retained to allow the full typicity of each plot to be revealed. Furthermore, always striving to produce the most authentic wines possible, fermentation with indigenous yeasts and bottling without filtration are standard practice.
The wines from the estate are constantly improving and impress with their impressive balance.
Close Behind OldIt was restored by the family in 1994. The vineyard reaches an altitude of 350 meters and benefits from a cool climate.GigondasIt is adorned here with great delicacy, an airy mouthfeel and a transcendent minerality.
The High GarriguesIt comes from the estate's historic plots. The vines are 75 years old on average and offer a deep, intense cuvée with impressive longevity.
Benjamin brings his energy and passion to continue the work begun by past generations. His wines are a firm favorite with the Cavissima team!
