Jean-François Gras
Jean-François Gras
The domaine François Xavier Lambert was created in the early 20th century by Jean-François’ great-grandfather, François Xavier Lambert, in Gigondas, found at the heart of the Dentelles de Montmirail. The 28 hectares of vines are planted 70% Grenache Noir, 15% Syrah, and 15% Mourvèdre on typical red alluvial clay that gives depth and richness to the wines of the area. Grapes are grown using the “lutte raisonée” methodology that limits use of interventions in the vineyards, and vinification is traditional.
A former competitive speed skier before returning to the family domaine, Jean-François still enjoys riding a motorcycle but has sworn off anything over 150 km per hour. His appetite for adrenaline does not extend to winemaking, as he prefers to watch everything ferment slowly in concrete tanks, then implement aging for 6-10 months before bottling.
Paris Wine Company works with Jean-François to create an exclusive Côtes-du-Rhône blend, which comes from vineyards in the communes of Sablet and Violes. It is fermented in large concrete tanks and bottled in the spring to preserve the freshness of the wine. This cuvée is bottled under the Jean-François Gras label.