Entre-Deux-Mers Haut-Benauge, a hidden gem
You may have heard of the Entre-Deux-Mers PDO. But not many people know that it is home to another, much smaller appellation: Entre-Deux-Mers Haut-Benauge. You are now one of the lucky few! Read on to find out more about its well-balanced dry white wines.
What is the Entre-Deux-Mers Haut-Benauge wine region?
Key points to remember
- Ten winegrowers at most cultivating 45 hectares. In other words, very limited production.
- Wines that comply with the same specifications as that of the Entre-Deux-Mers PDO.
- Eight communes which can proudly display the Haut-Benauge complementary geographical name on their labels, on the condition that the entire winemaking process is carried out on site, from winegrowing to bottling. These communes are Escoussans, Gornac, Ladaux, Mourens, Porte-de-Benauge, Saint-Pierre-de-Bat, Soulignac and Targon.
Why do people love Entre-Deux-Mers Haut-Benauge and its wines?
- Because everybody likes discovering wines from such a small place.
- Because they reflect the genuine expertise of winegrowers who are deeply attached to their terroir.
- Because they go perfectly with oysters and grilled fish enjoyed on the waterfront on a summer’s day.
- Because it is the only complementary geographical name in the Entre-Deux-Mers PDO. One more reason to enjoy these hidden gems as they should be!
- Because a stroll through the vineyards offers the occasion to visit Château de Benauge, a medieval fortress overlooking the village of Porte-de-Benauge.
What is the Entre-Deux-Mers Haut-Benauge style?
These wines start out very refreshing, becoming rich on the aftertaste yet remaining well-balanced.
A distinctive harmony
Notes of citrus and yellow flowers emerge on the nose, mingled with exotic hints. They are lively, crisp and smooth on the palate, culminating in a lovely round finish.
These wines are best enjoyed young to make the most of their liveliness
What do Entre-Deux-Mers Haut-Benauge wines taste like?
Dry white wines, pure and simple!
Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Gris guarantee freshness, finesse and a minerality that really hits the spot. Sémillon, meanwhile, adds body and a great deal of character to the wines. But the PDO is also home to other, lesser-known grape varieties such as Muscadelle, displaying notes of Muscat, as well as light and floral Ugni Blanc and intensely fruity Colombard, for a lovely aromatic twist.
Fun facts
Three fun facts you need to know about Entre-Deux-Mers Haut-Benauge
Read on to find out more about the little-known aspects of this terroir…
1.
The PDO delimited area boasts a rich historical and geographical past. In fact, it roughly follows the boundaries of the former viscounty of Benauge Castle, within the historic province of Gascony. This heritage has created a real sense of belonging among local winegrowers.
2.
Its vineyards share its delimited area with the Bordeaux Haut-Benauge PDO, which mainly produces sweet white wines. Two PDOs, two specifications and two different styles, yet from the same terroir.
3.
The name “Entre-Deux-Mers” is a nice nod to a local specificity. The “mers”, or seas, refer to the Garonne and Dordogne rivers: at high tide, the ocean tides travel upriver, creating a magnificent natural spectacle called the “mascaret”. You need to see it at least once in your life!
Let’s talk about the soil
Underneath the vines, clay and limestone form a dream team. The former retains water, adding freshness and structure to the grapes, while the latter ensures good drainage and welcome airflow.
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As a result, the soils remain cool in summer and can easily withstand heavy rainfall. A secret weapon to contend with the vagaries of the weather.
Let’s travel back in time
The first vines were planted in the Entre-Deux-Mers a long time ago. While the region was already an agricultural hub under the Roman Empire, farming practices were taken to a whole new level during the Middle Ages. As early as the 11th century, the Benedictine monks cleared forestland to plant the very first vines. Winegrowing then gradually developed throughout the region.
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The 20th century marked another turning point. After the foundation of its winegrowers’ association in 1924, the Entre-Deux-Mers PDO for dry white wines was recognized by decree in 1937. The wording Haut-Benauge complements the latter, showcasing the specificities of the terroir.
