Clos Aguilem

A Respectful Approach to Viticulture at Clos Aguilem

Clos Aguilem, a 9-hectare estate situated at the foot of the Larzac plateau, just 35 km west of Montpellier, is a regular recipient of awards from the Guide Hachette des Vins. Founded in 2015 by Jean-Charles Auffret, an agronomist and oenologist with experience in Champagne at Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, the estate is located in the Hérault region near the picturesque village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. The vineyards spread across several communes, including Saint-Saturnin-de-Lucian, Arboras, Saint-Guiraud, Ceyras, and Saint-André-de-Sangonis, all within the Terrasses du Larzac Appellation.

The vineyard includes old vines of Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache Noir, Grenache Blanc, and Chenin, as well as younger plots planted with Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Vermentino. Clos Aguilem practices viticulture focused on low yields and minimal soil intervention, prioritizing the preservation of the land. Since 2016, the estate has been transitioning to organic farming, with wines certified AB starting with the 2019 vintage.The winemaking process is centered on preserving the purity of the grape, enhancing its natural fruit character, extracting smooth tannins, and producing wines with a strong body and a long, harmonious finish.