THE WINE 
This blend of 50% Braucol, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Duras, and 5% Syrah offers a deep garnet-red color and aromas of ripe black fruits, including redcurrant and blackberry. On the palate, it is well-rounded and expressive, showcasing soft tannins and rich, fruity flavors. The grapes are destemmed and undergo a three-week cuvaison with indigenous yeasts fermenting in concrete tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation and 10 months of aging in concrete to preserve purity and freshness. This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like cassoulet, duck breast with black cherries, or chicken basquaise, and complements cheeses such as Comté, aged Gouda, or even the contrasting boldness of Roquefort.
 
THE PEOPLE
Founded in 1949, Maison Labastide is the oldest wine cooperative in the Tarn and a cornerstone of the Gaillac wine region in Occitanie, southern France. Over more than seven decades, it has become a key player in promoting and preserving the unique terroirs of Gaillac. Maison Labastide is distinctive for producing wines from four diverse terroirs within the appellation: the Cordais Plateau, the hillsides of the Right Bank, the terraces of the Left Bank, and the Noyau de Cunac. This wide range of sites, combined with traditional and modern winemaking techniques, allows the cooperative to craft a variety of expressive wines that reflect the rich history, diverse soils, and climatic influences of the Gaillac region. The cellar also focuses on sustainable viticulture and quality, supporting over 200 growers who contribute to the cooperative’s success and reputation.
 
THE PLACE
Gaillac, located in southwest France near Toulouse, is one of the country’s oldest wine regions, with viticultural roots dating back to Roman times. Known for its diversity, Gaillac produces a wide range of wines; reds, whites, rosés, sparkling, and even sweet, using both international and rare local grape varieties. Indigenous grapes like Duras, Braucol (Fer Servadou), Mauzac, and Loin de l’Œil define the region’s unique identity, offering wines with distinct character and freshness. The varied terroir, including limestone, clay, and gravel soils, combined with a temperate climate, allows for expressive, food-friendly wines that highlight Gaillac’s rustic charm and historic depth.