Languedoc is known as the wild west of France, especially when it comes to winemaking. It is an exciting region in Southwest France where winemakers are redefining the rules and creating energetic and vibrant wines. Languedoc wines are experiencing a renaissance of sorts and no conversation about the region would be complete without crediting Jean-Claude Mas and the wines of Domaines Paul Mas.
In the early 1970s, Languedoc was known for producing large quantities of bulk wines. Through the pioneering efforts of Jean-Claude Mas, Languedoc has undergone a revitalization. Though Domaines Paul Mas may be a large wine-producing company(producing 21 million bottles annually), there is a real personality behind the brand. For Jean-Claude, winemaking is not simply about wine, his philosophy is centered around the experience of the Languedoc lifestyle and his wines impart the “rural luxury” of the area. Jean-Claude aims to create wines that are accessible and approachable, wines that evoke memories and create special moments.
Here in Languedoc, big does not necessarily mean bad. Paul Mas wines may be produced in quantity, but there is no shortage of quality. Paul aims to make “old world wines with a new world attitude”. Stylistically his wines are balanced with a focus on structure, complexity and elegance.
The Rural Luxury Of Languedoc
I had the opportunity to spend a few sunny days in the Mediterranean at Domaines Paul Mas. Spending time with Jean-Claude Mas, you really understand his vision, sense of humor and business acumen, all of which have made him one of the most successful winemakers in Languedoc. This noble winemaking region dates back 2000 years and Jean-Claude is part of a new wave of producers who aim to bring Languedoc back to its glory days.
Experiencing rural luxury at Domaines Paul Mas is stimulating to all the senses. During our stay, we effortlessly experienced the blending of everyday luxury, wine tourism and gastronomy at Côté Mas. We took in the beauty of the olives groves and vineyards via horseback. It was the perfect vantage point to visually see the various Côté Mas Vineyards sites. There were viewing points along the ride where we saw fantastic views of the Mediterranean Sea, Sète and the Hérault Valley
“For us, innovation and tradition come together to nourish a philosophy that we define as ‘rural luxury’: we want to create affordable great wines and stimulate real emotions, only from the senses. Isn’t that today’s luxury? “ ~ Jean-Claude Mas
Jean-Claude Mas – Domaines Paul Mas
Jean-Claude Mas was born in a winemaking family in Pézenas. At the age of 3, during the harvest, he escaped from his mother and ran 2.5 km to meet his grandfather in the cellar. This was a moment that he never forgot; when his interest and passion for wine were born. Later in life, whether he was living in Northern France, England or Miami he was always involved in wine.
The Mas family has been growing vines in the Languedoc since 1892. With a long history in viticulture and a family dedicated to agriculture, Jean-Claude Mas has evolved into a skilled wine producer and his wines showcase the exceptional terroir of Languedoc. Les Domaines Paul Mas is one of the leading wineries in the south of France with deep roots in the Languedoc region.
Domaines Paul Mas currently covers 15 properties with over 800 hectares of vineyards in the heart of the Languedoc, with 20% that are farmed organically and the rest farmed sustainably. With such large vineyards, they can blend some 45 different grape varieties, native and noble, from a fantastic range of diverse Languedoc terroirs.
Domaines Paul Mas – Diverse and Unique Terroir
At Paul Mas they grow 45 grape varieties in a mosaic of terroirs. This diversity of grapes comes from the unique situation of the region; bound by the Mediterranean Sea to the south, the mountains in the north, and by its geological formations throughout. Fossils and sedimentary rocks make the terroir and a wide range of soils allow them to produce a wide variety of wines.
The climate is Mediterranean and numerous wind patterns characterize the region. The wind is a key element of the Languedoc climate with the Tramontin, a cold dry wind from the northeast, along with the maritime warm wind from the south, and the mistral from the north. Jean-Claude has mastered the climate and soils of the region, to bring the finest expression of the wines.
Everyday Luxury At Your Table With Paul Mas Wines
Jean-Claude Mas has amassed an empire in a short period of time. He has a wide range of wines that offer the “everyday rural luxury” of the Meditteranean. He views wine not just as a product, but as an entire experience. He is the future of Languedoc and where Languedoc is headed; making organic and biodynamic wines at affordable price points for everyday enjoyment.
The wines are fresh, delicious, affordable and embody Jean-Claude’s philosophy of “Le Luxe Rural”, or rural, everyday luxury. Be sure to experience the Mediterranean with these delicious wines that represent exceptional value for the money. They are sure to inspire the deep emotions of the Languedoc.
CÔTÉ MAS SYRAH GRENACHE PAYS D’OC IGP
Intense and fruity notes of ripe black fruits, blackcurrant and a touch of licorice. Smooth and soft with flavors of concentrated and ripe berries and a touch of licorice. Best served with a slight chill. Pair with red meat, cheese and charcuterie, or simply by itself.
CÔTÉ MAS SAUVIGNON VERMENTINO PAYS D’OC IGP
Vibrant notes of citrus, grapefruit, and a touch of tropical fruits. Refreshing, with well-balanced acidity. Pairs well with chicken, fish and curry, but is also great on its own.
CÔTÉ MAS ROSÉ AURORE PAYS D’OC IGP
Aromatic with cherry, strawberry and floral aromas evolving toward soft candied fruit notes. The palate is rich and smooth with ripe red fruits and well-balanced acidity. Have as an aperitif or pair with grilled chicken, shrimp, and goat cheese salads.
CÔTÉ MAS CRÉMANT DE LIMOUX BRUT
An intense and refined nose of honey, acacia and crystallized lemon lead way to a harmonious palate of citrus fruits and balanced acidity. An excellent aperitif that pairs well with all styles of cuisine. The bubbly brut is a delicious mix of 60% Chardonnay, 20% Chenin Blanc, 10% Pinot Noir and 10% Mauzac.
CÔTÉ MAS CRÉMANT DE LIMOUX ROSÉ BRUT
A lovely pink with delicate and persistent bubbles. Refined scents of honeysuckle, peach and apricot lead way to a soft mouthfeel of grapefruit and a hint of blood orange. An excellent aperitif that pairs well with all styles of cuisine. This Crémant de Limoux is a blend of 70% Chardonnay, 20% Chenin Blanc and 10% Pinot Noir.
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