Who has not heard of Languedocien icon, Gérard Bertrand? Landowner and experienced négociant, Bertrand is an ex-rugby player who shifted his might to the wine world. Having left his sporting career behind he decided to take over the family domain in Corbières. His reputation has grown over time, enabling him to acquire vines in many other French and foreign appellations.

Situated between Narbonne and the Mediterranean, La Clape was once an island before becoming joined to the mainland by the alluvial deposits of the River Aude. Domaine de l’Hospitalet stands on the heights of La Clape, set within a natural amphitheatre overlooking the sea. This exceptional terroir enjoys a unique microclimate, with more than 300 days of sunshine each year, a strong maritime influence and constant winds that help keep the vines healthy. The soils are composed of hard Jurassic limestone interspersed with marl and red sandstone. The grapes are harvested at optimum ripeness before being fully destalked. Each grape variety and parcel is vinified separately, with long macerations lasting around three weeks. The final blend is then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels.
The intense purple hue shows garnet glints. The complex bouquet reveals aromas of ripe black fruit, garrigue, black pepper and dark chocolate. Broad, velvety and well structured, the palate is supported by silky tannins and vibrant acidity, leading to a long, mineral finish with a distinctive saline edge.