The Ermitage du Pic St-Loup dates back from the Middle Ages, as the former home of the bishops of Maguelone. The limestone peak or “pic” perched above the vineyards was named for the legendary Saint Thieri Loup, one of three pious, crusading, brothers and suitors to the beautiful Bertrade. After her untimely death, Loup became a hermit. In 1992, the Ravaille brothers (Xavier, Pierre, and Jean-Marc) joined forces to plant a vineyard in what has traditionally been land dominated by sheep farming and cheese production. The Ravaille family has been in the Languedoc for over one thousand years, long enough to have known Saint Loup personally. Within the first few years, the Ravailles came to the conclusion that introducing biodynamic farming practices would allow them to make the wine they wanted. Though they have been using this methodology since 1999, as of 2012 vintage they are certified organic.

Grapes for this wine come from a 20-acre vineyard of 15-80-year old vines grown on clay, limestone and dolomite. Whites are fermented naturally and aged in foudres and demi-muids for 10 months, then bottled unfiltered.

Winery notes: The nose reveals dried fruits, white flowers, hawthorn and pistachio and notes of honey and orange zest. After aeration, kernel fruits can be detected (peach, lychee). The attack in the mouth is full and precise and the finish generous and fresh.

Our notes: The nose offers flowers, apricot jam and citrus oil. This is full bodied and round with a buttery, creamy texture and a pleasant bitterness of grape skins. Apricot, almond paste and floral notes dominate.

Chicken/Turkey, Duck, Fish-full flavored (salmon/tuna), Ham, Pork, Roasted Root Vegetables, Thai or Vietnamese, Wild Game