Exploring Disease-Resistant Grape Varieties: The Case of Domaine de Revel and Domaine La Clausade

Understanding Disease-Resistant Grape Varieties

Indeed, more and more winemakers are becoming aware of the need to adapt to new challenges (ecological, climatic, and health-related). As a result, many environmentally-conscious winemakers who care about the quality of their wines are turning to disease-resistant grape varieties that require fewer phytosanitary treatments! In this article, we introduce two noteworthy wines made from these resilient varieties: the Grain Rebel from Domaine de Revel and the rosé from Domaine La Clausade. But before diving into these two cuvées, it’s important to learn a bit more about these famous disease-resistant varieties.

What is a Disease-Resistant Grape Variety?

A disease-resistant grape variety is a type of vine that has been developed to naturally combat certain diseases, particularly mildew and powdery mildew. These grape varieties result from crossings between European vine varieties (Vitis vinifera) and American vine varieties (Vitis rotundifolia, etc.) or even Asian varieties (Vitis amurensis, etc.), some of which have natural disease resistance. The goal is to preserve the quality of traditional grape varieties while enhancing their resistance to vine diseases. Among the most well-known disease-resistant varieties (though still quite rare) are Artaban, Floréal, Muscaris, Souvignier Gris, Soreli, Coliris, and Selenor.

Research on disease-resistant grape varieties began in the 1970s with the aim of reducing the use of harmful phytosanitary products for the environment and consumer health. To date, around twenty new disease-resistant grape varieties are authorized in France, although they are often limited to IGP wine or Vin de France appellations. Vineyards adopting these varieties can thus reduce or even eliminate the use of chemical treatments. Interested in tasting these innovative grape varieties? Here are two cuvées that are sure to impress!

Domaine de Revel: Grain Rebel

Nestled in the small village of Vaïssac in the heart of Southwestern France, Domaine de Revel is a vineyard strongly committed to eco-friendly practices. The Grain Rebel cuvée is crafted from 85% Souvignier Gris, a disease-resistant variety, blended with 15% Sauvignon Gris. This cuvée stands out for its freshness and intense aromas of citrus (yuzu lemon), white flowers, exotic fruits (mango), and a hint of saffron. Grain Rebel is a very balanced and surprising dry white wine that pairs wonderfully with fish or seafood.

Domaine La Clausade Rosé

Located in the Languedoc region near Montpellier and close to the sea, Domaine La Clausade is also deeply involved in innovative and environmentally friendly viticulture. This unique rosé is made from disease-resistant varieties such as Muscaris and Souvignier Gris, complemented by a touch of Syrah. The wine is characterized by its pale pink hue and vibrant aromas of red fruits (raspberry), citrus (grapefruit), and rose. Domaine La Clausade’s rosé is perfect for accompanying summer dishes or casual gatherings with friends!

As you’ve just discovered, disease-resistant grape varieties offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional viticulture. The cuvées made from these varieties, like Grain Rebel from Domaine de Revel and the rosé from Domaine La Clausade, prove that quality and environmental commitment can go hand in hand. At Avenue des Vins, we offer white, red, and rosé wines, as well as champagne and sparkling wines directly from the estate or château of your choice. Each cuvée is selected with the utmost care, and all our wines are available for delivery straight to your home. Discover our bottles with the best quality-price ratio today !