Gérard Bertrand is one of the most dynamic figures in French wine today—a former French National Team rugby star who traded the stadium for the vineyard and built an empire rooted in passion, precision, and place. Born in Narbonne and raised among the vines, he now oversees 17 distinct estates across the South-West and Languedoc, farming 930 hectares with an unwavering commitment to biodynamic agriculture. His vineyards are among the largest fully biodynamic holdings in the world, reflecting a belief that healthy soils and vibrant ecosystems create more expressive, authentic wines.
On the edge of the coast, the Château de l’Hospitalet overlooks the Mediterranean from about a hundred meters up. Benefiting from a semi-arid Mediterranean climate with a mild winter variant, the vineyard has exceptional climatic conditions: the Mediterranean heat and sun are tempered by the altitude, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly, which is ideal for a beautiful aromatic expression of the wines and their tannins. Two types of soil contribute to the aromatic complexity, finesse, and elegance of this vintage. The Gargasian marl-limestone soils at the foot of the cliff, rich in fossils, provide the vines with a supply of water throughout the summer despite the absence of summer rains. The Mediterranean red soils of the Barremian, formed on compact bluish-gray limestones reclaimed from the scrubland, allow for the production of rich and concentrated wines. Château l’Hospitalet Grand Vin comes from the best vines of the estate.
The dress is bright ruby. The nose, intense, is dominated by aromas of spices and red fruits such as strawberry. The palate presents silky and fine tannins highlighting the fruity freshness of this wine. This fleshy, harmonious wine, with an elegant structure, can be enjoyed now and promises a very promising future.
Blend: 60% Syrah, 30% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre
94 James Suckling This is a well-built, focused and balanced blend of syrah and mourvedre that shows drive and precision. Aromas of wild berries, stewed meat, olives, bay leaves, peppercorns and some burnt fennel as well. It’s full-bodied with fine, firm tannins. Textural and focused, with a harmonious berry character mingling nicely with the vivid spices and Mediterranean touch. Lively and peppery finish with length. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold.
92 Decanter Spicy nose with aromas of green peppercorn, black fruits and savoury red berries. Warm on the palate, very round and rich.
90 Jeb Dunnuck A blend dominated by Syrah, the 2022 La Clape Château L’Hospitalet Grand Vin is a selection of the best barrels, after approximately 16 months of aging, from each of the five grape varieties that compose it. Fresh and smooth, with dense, juicy tannins, the aromas develop into fruity notes of dried fruit, dates, blueberry and blackberry fruit paste, as well as wood, vanilla, caramel cream, licorice, and graphite. A slightly sweet touch from the barrel tannins accompanies the woody notes on the finish. A gentleman farmer style red, it’s a little rustic around the edges but offers a lot of pleasure. Enjoy from now on. Drink 2025-2032.
