When it comes to birthdays, weddings, or an event that calls for a celebration, we often think about a specific beverage that pops into our head. You know, the one that starts with a “c” and ends with a “pagne”...? Well, what if we changed that idea? What if there was a new style to celebrate life, rituals, and traditions? We’re talking about a drink that starts with an “r” and ends with “osé”!
That’s right! Instead, imagine popping bottles of a certain pink bubbly, one that awakens the senses. Rosé? Yes way! That is the vision of Gérard Bertrand, with his motto of «l’art de vivre les vins du sud» (the art of living southern wines). He has envisioned the debut of his new wine, Clos du Temple, seen as the Temple of Man. Last Thursday, we had the chance to meet Gerard himself, and he talked about his vision for the future of rose! This rendez-vous luncheon was provided by famous French-American chef, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and paired with Gerard Bertrand's beloved wines and the debut of his new rosé . Through this luncheon, we've got everything that you need to know about Clos du Temple, a rosé that will change the way you think about celebrations!
Further in the article, we will talk about Gerard’s grand masterpiece, a timeless and complex rosé to celebrate life! It is a drink that we can make memories with, and all toast to. Are you excited yet?? Don’t grab your glasses yet, the fun is just getting started!
Cabreières, the Home of Rosé
In the heart of Languedoc in southern France, Clos du Temple is created in the terroir of Cabreières, A.K.A the birthplace of rosé. Dating back to 1357, rose was served at banquets, earning recognition when it was served to King Louis XIV! The Cabreières wine region was born in 1st and 2nd century A.D. and founded by the Romans. During the time of Roman peace (Pax Romana), there was a multitude of Languedoc wine-growing and making. Then, winegrowing flourished around Cabreières for centuries, as it still shapes the vineyards today. From 1224 going forward, the Chateau gifted the land of Clos to the Templars, who gave their name to the vineyard. History combined with the makeup of its terroir created a new chapter for this site and its history!
The terroir for Clos du Temple is created from the same Hercynian volcanic up thrust that made Montagne Noire and Massif Central; the schist and limestone combined with the hilly terrain creates groundwater circulation for a natural water supply throughout the vineyard. Using the purest of water with an altitude of 787 feet, this southern terroir can produce the most balanced of wines! All in all, there are 20 acres of vines that are divided into 7 spaces that are naturally filled with both terrain and vegetation. The principle grapes in the terroir are: Grenache Noir, Syrah, and very old Cinsault.
«C’est magnifique!» , as the French would say.
A Bottle of Elegance
This is not just any ordinary rosé wine. Gerard has placed much thought and care on both the inside and outside of the bottle. The bottle for Clos du Temple is inspired by the architecture and design of the first temples made. It features a square base and a pyramid-shaped indent. The body itself is shaped from square to cylindrical, to represent both earthly (square) and cosmic (cylinder) dimensions, according to the principles of bio-dynamics. Of course, the shoulder for the wine is shaped like a dome, and there are golden lines to remind us of historical gold-covered domes as a guide for pilgrims. If you look closely at the bottle, the elegant and balanced proportions are inspired by the golden ratio, also known as the symbol “Phi”, located in the “T”, colored in blue.
A Close Look at Harvesting
Gerard Bertrand is passionate about cultivating his wines bio-dynamically by using horses and mules to spark a connection between animal, mineral, vegetation, and human.
The harvest for Clos du Temple takes place at sunrise, taking advantage of cool evening temperatures, to preserve the freshness of the grapes. All grapes are hand-picked and placed in tiny boxes. The winery is located close to the vineyards, and finest juices are selected. Then, pressing happens at a low temperature of 41 degrees fahrenheit to preserve flavors and aromas and to avoid excess coloring.
After fermentation at a low temperature, the wines are clarified it using gravity for 24 hours. The temperatures are between 46-50 degrees fahrenheit, without adding any sulphur. Finally, the wines are barrel aged based on the origins of the wood for 6-8 months. Wines are blended on a day!
All About Clos du Temple
Clos du Temple is a blend of 4 red grapes and 1 white grape: Grenache Noir, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvedre, and Viognier. Together, they create a perfect balance and freshness to the taste!
Color: clear and light pink, notes of gold
Nose: ripe fruit (apricot and white peach), flower (rose), and spice (green pepper)
Palate/Taste: ripe apricot, peace, rose, spice
Finish: Long, mineral, hints of mild tobacco
During the luncheon with Jean-Georges, Clos du Temple was beautifully paired with scallop carpaccio and a lobster pasta dish with tomato sauce. Of course, rosé is a perfect compliment with appetizers, salads, salmon, tacos, and pastas. Now, you are able to use rosé for every celebration - from New Years to weddings, housewarming or graduations! It is a call for celebration, for every occasion.
The message of Clos du Temple radiates << Terre, Temps, Transcendence>> or “Terroir, Time, Transcendence”.
Gérard Bertrand allowed imagination to guide him in his terroir, thus creating a timeless rosé. His vineyards and door is always open to new and beloved guests. It is a perfect vacation, anniversary, or bucket list travel spot! Being able to be a part of his debut experience at Jean-Georges, Beverly Hills is a great honor, and has brought new perspective when it comes to celebrating. Consider switching to rosé as your celebration drink of choice! Clos du Temple has officially launched globally as of June 12th, 2019. Overall, it is definitely something to try, cherish, and fall in love with! We can definitely make a toast to that! Santé! Cheers!
All photographs are provided by Eugene Lee
