Frédéric Brouca "Champs Pentus" Faugères ‘20

The wines of the Faugères appellation, in the southern French region of Languedoc, are lauded for their authenticity, vibrance, and complexity, and Frédéric Brouca’s wines are standouts among them. Largely self-taught as a winemaker, he grew up in Normandy and, even as a child, had a strong fierce desire to become a winegrower. After attending college for a sommelier diploma and working as a Burgundy wine broker, in 2012 he, along with his wife, Elaine, took over 25 acres of old vines in Faugères, organically farmed for twenty years and deeply rooted in schist. The following year marked the domaine’s inaugural vintage, and they continue to make wines in a small winery in the village of Laurens. The area is known for stunning mountain views and is close to the Mediterranean Sea (about 20 miles, or 30 kilometers), and red wine dominates, accounting for about 80% of total production. 
 
“Champs Pentus” is a blend of 40% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 30% Carignan, from vines that are at least 30 years old. Fermentation is carried out with natural yeast and partially with whole clusters, and the wine is aged for 10 months in stainless (90%) and neutral French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
 
“Champs Pentus” has all the charm of southern France in a bottle—garrigue, lavender, black pepper, violet pastilles, and blue and black berries. Medium bodied on the palate, it’s delicious and easy to drink without sacrificing character and depth. This is an easy wine to elevate any simple meal, especially one with earthy, savory ingredients—try it with braised chicken with greens and olives; lamb chops with anchovies, capers, and sage; or a burger with mushrooms and gruyère.