A Tradition-Filled History
Domaine de la Horizon’s history began in 1712 when pioneering winemakers began cultivating the Languedoc-Roussillon region’s lush grounds. Viticulture thrived in this region because of its optimal height, Mediterranean climate, and soils rich in limestone. In order to keep ahead of the competition, the estate changed over the ages, combining both conventional and contemporary winemaking techniques.
Thomas Teibert revitalisation of the estate through organic farming, sustainable water management, and low-intervention winemaking marked a turning point. Through these efforts, Domaine de la Horizon’s reputation for environmental responsibility as well as quality was enhanced. It serves as an example of how to combine traditional and modern viticultural techniques today.
Get to Know the Creative Force Behind the Winery
Thomas Teibert, the current proprietor of Domaine de la Horizon, is a visionary and passionate man.
Domaine de la Horizon has welcomed innovation under his direction while adhering to its historical foundation. Because of his strong commitment to sustainability, Jacques pioneered biodynamic agricultural methods and led the estate’s switch to renewable energy. He personally oversees soil management, grape selection, and harvest, and his concept is based on the idea that excellent wine starts in the vineyard.
In addition, Jacques is a fervent supporter of regional identity and has dedicated his life to advancing the Languedoc region internationally. To make sure that the region’s distinctive features are appreciated globally, he works with regional winemakers and foreign sommeliers. He has received many honours for his work, including the International Wine Guild’s “Sustainable Winemaker of the Year” title.
The Value of Diverse Soils
The variety of soils in Domaine de la Horizon is one of the fundamental elements that contribute to the wines’ outstanding quality. The estate grows grapes in a variety of terroirs, each of which contributes distinctive qualities.
Higher elevations of the vineyard contain limestone & lay soils, which hold moisture efficiently and keep the grapes hydrated even during dry spells. Especially in the whites and rosés, they add to the minerality and structure of the wines.
Schist: This metamorphic rock is valued for its capacity to radiate heat and is common in some areas of the vineyard. This promotes even ripening of the grapes, producing robust reds with intense spice and dark fruit flavours.
Pebbles and gravel: These well-drained soils are perfect for Syrah and Grenache because they enable the roots to reach deep and obtain vital nutrients. As a result, the wines have a unique elegance and nuanced scents.
Patches of the farm have sandy loam soils, which provide grapes with vivid, fruity characteristics. These are frequently found in the estate’s lighter and sparkling wines.
The estate’s reputation for creating wines with exceptional depth and character is a result of the meticulous management of these various soil types, which guarantees that each grape variety grows in its ideal setting.
A Symphony of Flavours: The Wines
The wines produced by Domaine de la Horizon are evidence of its superb terroir and painstaking craftsmanship. In addition to growing a range of grapes, such as Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Carignan, the estate also experiments with creative blends that defy regional expectations.
Signature Red Blends: These hearty wines have layers of earthy spices, cherry, and blackcurrant. Perfectly aged, the reds have a smooth finish and firm tannins, which makes them a favourite with mature cheeses, grilled meats, and robust stews. Notable labels include the “Cuvée Prestige” a mix of the estate’s best Syrah and Mourvèdre, and the flagship “Horizon Rouge” which regularly receives good ratings from wine critics.
Elegant Whites: Known for their citrus, stone fruit, and white floral aromas, the whites are praised for their crisp acidity and aromatic richness. They showcase the estate’s attention to detail and go well with shellfish, light pastas, and summer salads. Two notable examples are “Reserve Blanc” which is matured sur lie for added depth and texture, and “Blanc de Horizon” which is a lively blend of Grenache Blanc and Roussanne.
Rosé Types: Domaine de la Horizon produces similarly impressive rosés, which are made with a blend of Syrah and Grenache to create crisp wines with notes of watermelon, red berries, and a hint of minerality. These wines go well with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine or are perfect for balmy afternoons.
The estate’s oldest vines are used to make the limited-edition reserves, which are aged in French oak barrels to produce a sophisticated flavour. These wines are highly sought-after collector’s items at international auctions due to their remarkable ageing potential and layers of flavour. With hints of dried herbs, dark chocolate, and black truffle, the “Grand Horizon Reserve” stands out for its richness.
Sparkling Wines: The estate has recently started producing sparkling wines the old-fashioned way. The estate’s varied portfolio is further enhanced by these bubbly wines, which are made from Chardonnay & Pinot Noir and have a creamy texture, delicate bubbles, and aromas of citrus zest and brioche.
A Tradition of Innovation and Sustainability
A fundamental component of Domaine de la Horizon’s concept is environmental responsibility. To maintain the biodiversity of its vines, the estate uses biodynamic agricultural methods, runs fully on renewable energy, and uses natural pest control. Every bottle is an accurate expression of the terroir thanks to their low-intervention strategy.
Additionally, the estate actively contributes to the development of the town. In order to promote local culture, it works with farmers in the area, provides informative vineyard tours, and hosts wine tasting events. Global sustainability organisations have acknowledged their efforts, confirming their position as pioneers in environmentally sustainable winemaking.
In Conclusion
Beyond just a winery, Domaine de la Horizon is a place where sustainability, innovation, and history all come together. It is a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast because of its superb wines, stunning landscapes, and unwavering commitment to quality. A visit to this outstanding estate is sure to be a meaningful and unforgettable experience, regardless of your level of experience.
