Vaucluse, France

Domaine D’Ourea

Founded in 2009 by Adrien Roustan, Domaine D'Ouréa is nestled in the heart of the Vaucluse department, within the renowned wine-growing areas of Vacqueyras and Gigondas in southern Rhône. After completing his studies in oenology and gaining experience in Burgundy and California, Roustan took over a portion of his grandfather Raymond Bertrand’s estate. In his first year, he transitioned the vineyard to organic farming, achieving certification in 2012. This shift in approach was a natural decision for Roustan, aiming to produce wines that truly express the unique terroirs of his vineyard.

In Greek mythology, Gaia, the Mother Earth, gives birth to several children, including "Ouréa," the God of the Mountains. This name is a tribute to the estate's highest vineyard plot, located in the Dentelles.

Farming requires patience, and it took over a decade to restore natural balance in the vineyards and wines through organic practices. For Adrien, the shift to biodynamics is a natural extension of his philosophy. In 2020, he decided to convert the entire estate to biodynamic farming. This marks a new chapter in the estate’s history, dedicated to producing exceptional wines from the Southern Rhône.

With the support of Hissam Jait and a team of seasonal workers, Adrien has built a close-knit group dedicated to the daily care of the vineyard and cellar. The team handles all tasks manually, from pruning and trellising to planting and ploughing. The plots are cultivated using natural methods striving to balance the grapes and terroir to produce refined, elegant, and delicate wines. The entire vineyard is harvested by hand to ensure the utmost respect for the grapes as they reach the vat. Adrien is a strong advocate of manual harvesting, believing it results in vibrant, fresh, and radiant wines.