Duras grapes now blended into Gaillac primeur wines

hat was an anomaly has now been rectified. Unlike all other Gaillac appellations, the primeur wine was the only one where local grape varieties had not been introduced into production specifications. On September 11, the newly-drafted production specifications were published in the Official Journal, rectifying the discrepancy. Gaillac AOC Primeur can now be made with Duras, a local grape variety, in addition to Gamay.

The 11 September publication also officialises the change in production specifications for white AOC Gaillac. Local grape varieties Loin de l’Oeil and Mauzac thus see their share of the blend rise from a minimum of 50% to 70%, while Muscadelle, originally from Bordeaux, has been limited.

“The change also comes in response to climate change”, explains Cédric Carcena, chairman of the Gaillac wine centre. “Gamay is an early-ripening cultivar and we are increasingly struggling to keep Gamay fruit-forward and easy-drinking”.

Duras seemed like a good alternative. Incorporating it into production specifications could also prove to be a viable marketing choice. “Sales of primeur wines are declining. The change enables us to refresh our range and prove that we are capable of responding to demand for light, fruity wines made from local grape varieties”, adds Carcenac.