Region/AOC

The Madiran AOC is located in the southwest region of France, nestled in the heart of Armagnac country. Vineyards as a tradition in this area date back to the 1st century BC in Gallo–Roman times. Set against the extraordinary backdrop of this charming countryside, in a region known for their white wine; you find a sanctuary in the red wines of Madiran. Finding solace in the small hills at the foot of the Pyrenees, the wines from this clay-limestone soil reverberate with black fruits and spices.

History

Over four generations of the Oulie family have kept alive the venerable tradition of winemaking in the heart of the AOC of Madiran. Year by year the grapes are carefully picked by hand, always keeping the traditional sense of well being and conviviality that is the essence of the Southwest of France. Here in the “heart of darkness”, the Oulie family has created a firm, robust red worthy of the centuries old accolade.

Terroir

Only red wines are produced from the calcareous clay that is typified by the presence of gravels and pebbles; which is the terroir of the Madiran. Stretching over 69 acres, Domaine du Crampilh’s vines are planted on side hills that are bathed in the sun’s rays, thanks due in part to a south/southeast orientation. Their wines resonate with the strength imparted to them by the chalky-clay soil and the beneficent maritime climate. This oceanic climate has more extremes than the other areas closer to the Atlantic. Unlike other regions that are closer to the coast, here in Madiran the grapes enjoy warmer summers and colder winters that are typified by sudden stormy changes.

Wine making

The wines of Madiran are best represented by the variety of grape that is indigenous to the region and thrives in the maritime climate; Tannat. Known for its complex structure and black and red fruit notes, Tannat is an important part of all Madiran wines. Other varieties to be found in the “heart of darkness” are Cabernet Sauvignon, Fer-Servadou (Braucol) and Cabernet Franc. The Oulie family picks all of their harvest by hand in order to gather the premium fruit for the cuvee, thus revealing all the aromas and the full balance of the wines. Then the wine is traditionally vinified in stainless steel vats with micro-oxygenation. After this the wine is aged in French oak barrels for eight and twelve months.

Practices: Sustainable Farming
Winemaker: Marie Oulie