Sarrat de Goundy – Artisan Wines of La Clape by Olivier Calix | Mediterranean Terroir & Sustainable Winemaking

Olivier Calix, the artisanal winemaker behind Sarrat de Goundy, crafts wines that echo his deep connection to La Clape's unique terroir. Raised in the coastal beauty of southern France, Olivier spent years abroad, only to return to his family’s land, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Here, his vineyards thrive amidst the rugged scrubland and relentless coastal winds, creating wines that express the intense character of their maritime origins.

Olivier Calix Portrait: Close-up portrait of winemaker Olivier Calix amidst lush olive trees at his vineyard in La Clape, southern France.

Olivier has spent over 20 years refining his craft, producing wines of growing distinction. His dedication to terroir-driven viticulture shines through in his meticulous work with indigenous grapes, particularly Bourboulenc, a variety that has found a perfect home in La Clape's hot, dry, limestone-rich soils. Alongside other regional classics like Carignan, Grenache Noir, and Mourvèdre, his wines capture the essence of the land, with Syrah brought in from the Rhône Valley.

Vineyard Landscape: A view of the Sarrat de Goundy vineyard, nestled between scrubland and the Mediterranean coast, with rows of grapevines under a clear sky.

He is one of a few top winemakers to tackle the unrealised potential of Bourboulenc. Alongside Christophe Barbier and Eric Fabre (ex-Lafite Rothschild) they have found La Clape the perfect spot - hot, dry, limestone - to cultivate Bourboulenc's strong citrus, herbal & floral characteristics. Perfect vino for the region's abundant crustacea and bouillabaisse.

Bourboulenc Grapes: A close-up shot of Bourboulenc grapes ripening in the sun, representing one of the key varietals cultivated at Sarrat de Goundy.

Belief in terroir-driven flavours has shaped a different flavour profile for the red Languedoc classics - Carignan & Grenache Noir - he also grows stunning Syrah (from Rhone) and Mourvèdre (from northern Spain).

Sustainable farming practices have always been at the core of Olivier's winemaking philosophy. Since 2001, he has worked with natural fertilizers, mechanical tillage, and zero sulphates. His belief in low-temperature vinification and hands-off cellar practices ensures the wines reflect their natural surroundings.

Vineyard in La Clape: Scenic shot of the Sarrat de Goundy vineyard in La Clape, with autumn-colored vines and distant hills under a cloudy sky.

As a part of the independent vigneron revolution, Olivier’s wines are highly sought after for their Mediterranean elegance, balance, and finesse. A reflection of his artistic sensibility, these wines are perfect pairings for the region's abundant seafood, especially bouillabaisse and crustaceans.

Amphora for Fermentation: Traditional Georgian amphorae used for wine fermentation at Sarrat de Goundy, reflecting their commitment to natural winemaking techniques.

The Wine Experience

The experience of Olivier’s wines is not limited to the bottle. At his winery, the restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere, where guests enjoy meals cooked over a wood fire and expertly paired with his wines. It’s a place where shared joy and good company come together, enhancing the appreciation of his wines.

Wood-fired Restaurant at Sarrat de Goundy: The wood-fired restaurant at Sarrat de Goundy, where guests enjoy local cuisine paired with wines, offering a true Mediterranean experience.

Wines Available:
A selection of exceptional wines from Sarrat de Goundy, each showcasing Mediterranean character, fine balance, and artistry:

Sarrat de Goundy Combre aux Louvres 2020 Red Wine

Sarrat de Goundy Mano o Mano Rouge 2019 Red Wine

Sarrat de Goundy Mano o Mano Blanc 2021 White Wine

Sarrat de Goundy Le Planteur 2021 White Wine