Domaine de Chamans
Sir John & Philippa Hegarty and Jessica Chardron Servet – Minervois
Sir John Hegarty is one of the most revered creative leaders in Global advertising. For decades he shaped brands that people treasured – Audi, Boddingtons, Johnnie Walker, Lego, Levi’s. There were better writers, better designers, better film makers; but no leader built a creative culture like John Hegarty.
He had a vision. A manner. An inspiring ease with temperamental talent. And this is what we admire with Chamans. His extraordinary craft leadership – this time applied to making biodynamic wine.
In a secluded spot on the slope of Montagne Noire, they found old vines planted in limestone and schist, surrounded by forest. Nature's ideal stage...
They painstakingly crafted all the individual pieces: the philosophy (dare to be different), principles (organic farming through biodiversity), terroir (altitude, south-facing foothills on limestone, clay & schist), the vineyard (workers William & Helios, native vegetation), vines (ancient – 60-70 years old, predominantly indigenous grapes), cellar (non-interventionist, natural yeast, gentle extraction), the winemaker (top talent Jessica).
Several beehives also contribute to the biodiversity of the land.
Even the iconic black sheep are put to work eating weeds, naturally fertilising between the vines, and avoiding the grape-loving wild boar..!
All that said, the sum of the parts is greater, even greater than the gorgeous Grenache...
Jancis Robinson commented on Grenache-dominated blend, Le Matelas: “Absolutely wonderful. Peppery, fragrant, fresh – rain-wet gravel. Firm, honest, really exciting fruit. Chewy tannins but not in a tiring way. Liquorice root, caraway, chocolate mint. So fragrant and lifted from start to finish. Long and seriously exciting. This is pretty special.”
Robert Parker on Black Knight, their Syrah-led blend made in spectacular vintages: “Dynamic and riveting…a terrific wine that’s well worth seeking out.”
After nearly 25 years in the Minervois, John & Philippa do not get the recognition their ground-breaking step deserves. They are quiet pioneers of New Languedoc.
The Chaman's team occupy a unique place in our portfolio of world-class producers. They’ve featured in many of our tasting events receiving rave reviews, and more often than not, a sell-out.