Château Bas - Provence

Château Bas has been a farmhouse ever since the 17th Century, built on a Gallo-Roman town. There are even the vestiges of a Roman temple there.

The production is now certified organic.

Philippe Pouchin, the director, looks after the 100 Hectares (250 acres) estate as if it was a garden each plot gets continuous individual attention. Most of them are under grass.

Philippe seeks living soils and plants that aren't too vigorous, a balanced equilibrium which is self regulating. Start him off on the subject, and you might as well forget any subsequent engagements.

From the red ((Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Counoise) and white (Sauvignon, Rolle, Grenache et Ugni blanc) varieties, he produces three ranges, after careful cellar work:

• Alvernègues, which gives priority to freshness, gentleness and fruit.
• Pierres de Sud, broader and fatter, wines that have long been "classics".
• Temple, whose volume, gentle extraction, elegance and depth are becoming landmarks.

A passionate and fascinating winemaker, whose talent is only matched by his wish to share.