Sarrat de Goundy

Olivier Calix - La Clape

Olivier Calix is the artisanal winemaker behind Sarrat de Goundy.  Raised with wild seaside joy in his heart, after a master’s in art history, he spent 8-years abroad to return to the family landscape overlooking the big blue sea. 

For over 20 years he has quietly made wine of increasing quality and distinction. His vines in La Clape are sandwiched between scrubland and the Mediterranean Sea. A real maritime terroir, exposed to fierce sunshine and harsh sea wind where his indigenous grapes flourish in these character-building conditions.

He is one of a few top winemakers to tackle the unrealised potential of Bourboulenc. Alongside Christophe Barbier and Eric Fabre (ex-Lafite Rothschild) they have found La Clape the perfect spot - hot, dry, limestone - to cultivate Bourboulenc's strong citrus, herbal & floral characteristics. Perfect vino for the region's abundant crustacea and bouillabaisse.

Belief in terroir-driven flavours has shaped a different flavour profile for the red Languedoc classics - Carignan & Grenache Noir - he also grows stunning Syrah (from Rhone) and Mourvèdre (from northern Spain).

Olivier has practiced sustainable cultivation of his vines since 2001: natural fertilisers, mechanical tillage, zero sulphates, low temp vinification. 

The independent vigneron revolution is thriving here today, his wines are some of the most sought-after in Languedoc.

 

Shared joy is at the heart of his philosophy.  This is personified in the cellar’s restaurant. A beautiful place to enjoy food cooked on wood fire and thoughtfully paired wines. 

 

We import four top wines – all full of Mediterranean character, well balanced, and a finesse that showcases his artistic sensitivity.