Maison Gérard Bertrand - Domaine de l'Aigle

Original identity mix

In the heart of the Limoux territory, the Domaine de l'Aigle takes its name from the Bonelliqui eagles nesting in the cliff to which the vineyard backs. Rich in the cool climate of the Pyrenean foothills, it is the field of experimentation of a mesh of terroirs. Indeed, the region has long attracted the interest of the people of Champagne and Burgundy who wished to plant their northern French grape varieties here. The Domaine de L'Aigle was born from this mixture of genres, which has proved its worth because the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grape varieties flourish wonderfully on these soils, whose temperatures allow the fruit to reach optimal maturity while retaining its freshness. In 2007, Gérard Bertrand bought the estate and his ambition is to produce the best wines from these imported grape varieties, partly thanks to the principles of organic and biodynamic agriculture that are so dear to him.

Typical expression of an unknown terroir

As mentioned earlier, the vineyards of the Pyrenean foothills enjoy a cool climate despite the southern location of the territory. This is due to the altitude, as in fact the vineyards rise to more than 500 meters, which is considerable when we talk about viticulture. The coolness offered by the elevation of the area is reinforced by the oceanic influence which lowers the temperatures of the region by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius. The soils are rich in nutrients because they are sandy-clay and are regularly irrigated thanks to rainfall that is also higher than the average for the region. It is this freshness that makes the wines of the AOP Limoux and the IGP Haute Vallée de l'Aude so little known by the general public. The amplitude of the temperatures guarantees a gentle ripening that preserves the fruit aromas and lets them express themselves as a true witness of this exceptional terroir.

Vintages as close to nature as possible

Domaine de l'Aigle makes both white and red wines and brings Nordic grape varieties to the South of France. The white wines of the Limoux PDO are vinified from Chardonnay and express delicate aromas of citrus and light spices, all in finesse. Since 2015, Gérard Bertrand has also been producing a high quality Gewürztraminer under the IGP Pays d'Oc appellation, which surprises with its complexity and delights with its marked aromatic profile. As for the reds, they are made from Pinot Noir under the appellation IGP Haute Vallée de l'Aude and are the epitome of Southwestern wines in their depth. Their fruity side is reminiscent of the lightness brought by Pinot Noir and are the result of a perfect balance. These cuvées are thus a reflection of their terroir thanks to the respectful practices that nurture them.