Chateau Jean Gervais is a family property located in the town of Portets near the Garonne River. The town’s motto is: “Port je fus, vignoble je reste” (A port I was, a vineyard I remain). It is in fact the unique gravelly,
alluvial soils of the former river bed that make the special character
of Ch. Jean Gervais wines possible. The wines are made by owners
Francois and Denis Counilh, who are enthusiastic promoters of the
Graves region for its accessible and delicious wines. For the
Counilh’s, their wines reflect the uniqueness of their vineyard, and it
is this very uniqueness that they strive for. Ch. Jean Gervais wines
are ready for current drinking upon release and represent excellent
value.
Beginning with the 2003 vintage, Graves Blanc is made in a new style. It is a white of substantial body and richness
with vivid fresh fruit flavors of apple, fig, and citrus, highlighted
by notes of minerals and oak. One third of the harvest is given 24
hours of maceration on the skins before pressing. The wine is aged on
its fine less half in tank and half in barrels until the Spring. The
lees are gently stirred in the tank and barrel to enhance the wine’s
richness and complexity. The Graves Blanc is distinguished by its total
purity and expression of fruit and terroir. It is perfect with seafood,
young cheeses and white meats.
The Graves Rouge is a soft, elegant and supple wine with fine dark fruit – cassis, plums and dark-cherry – flavors as well as “sous-bois” or mushroom-truffle and tobacco leaf notes. It is aged only in
stainless steel cuves, which allows the pure fruit and soil qualities
to express themselves fully in the bouquet and on the palate. The wine
has remarkable aromatic complexity and appealing flavors. It is a
versatile Red that can happily accompany most meat, pasta, and fish
dishes.
