Guide Oenotourisme Béziers 2018 Oenotourisme Béziers 2018 | Page 20

Domaine L’ HORT DEL GAL A WARM WELCOME The Domaine de l’Hort del Gal has existed at the gates of Béziers for centuries. It boasts of Gallo-Roman remains and the traces of pilgrims on the way to Compostella, and bears witness to the presence of Benedictine monks, becoming a monastery in the 13th century. Their wines are refined, subtle and plea sant. GLOSSARY ASBH Association Sportive Bé- ziers Hérault. The domaine’s buildings possess undis- puted soul and the fountain with twin- tailed mermaids is a testimony to devotion and fecundity that dates to the middle ages. For ten years now, Sandrine, Michael and their children have enchanted the place with their energy and joie de vivre. Having fallen in love with the property and wan- ting to change their lifestyle, they left their roots in the Ile de France region and passionately set about winemaking, passing a certificate in agricultural ma- nagement. The family also grasped the opportunity to develop a market garden as well. Today, vines, greenhouses, vegetable gardens and orchards flourish all around the estate. According to the seasons, grapes, vegetables and fruit figure in the lifecycle of the domaine. The boutique brims with organic produce, homemade jams, fruit juices, olive oil and, of course, the house vintages in 3 colours that can be tasted on site. Michael speaks with passion about his own personal journey 20 (originally an electrician), his commitment to a family project that has now become a reality. His words are peppered with all kinds of references to the produce grown on his land, some of which are unusual and appreciated by the best cooks. There is a feeling of harmony and warm hospitality about the place. Among the 6 vintages produced on the estate, the family favourite is “Cuvée Pauline”, a Chardonnay matured in oak barrels and bearing the first name of one of Michel and Sandrine’s daughters. As “people from the North”, hospitality is second nature to them.. That is why they have created 5 rural ‘gîtes’ that host tourists and the players of the ASBH, including foreign players, that Michel, who speaks fluent English, accommodates when they first arrive at the mythical Béziers rugby club. A discovery of the vineyards can also be arranged by appointment. Events take place at the domaine, including the Squash and Marrow Fair and the traditional Christmas market. In fact, throughout the year you will be welcomed by people who live their passion and you will only want thing at the end: to return to l’Hort del Gal. 638, ROUTE DE SÉRIGNAN - 34500 BÉZIERS 04 67 36 65 40 - 06 07 52 15 66 Domaine L’Hort Del Gal Winery shop open every day and year round.