Domaine de l'Hortus is owned and run by former agricultural engineer Jean Orliac, one of the leading lights of the Pic Saint Loup region situated north of Montpellier. He began in 1978 by renting a few hectares of vines but in 1980 purchased 55 hectares of barren land between the Pic Saint Loup and Montagne Hortus. Such was the work required on the estate that the first vintage wasn't released until 1990. Today there are 60 hectares producing pioneering reds and whites from the estate's remarkable all-wooden chai situated in the shadow of Montage Hortus. The superb Grand Cuvee red is a blend of 60% Syrah, 35% Mourvedre and 5% Grenache. The wine is aged in large Allier oak barrels for up to 18 months and it pairs excellently with full-flavoured meat dishes.

A dark purple-red in the glass. Concentrated aromas of black cherries, coffee and exotic spices. Opulent and creamy on the palate with hints of violets, eucalyptus and leather. The finish is long and spicy. A rich, polished and refined red that makes for a great accompaniment to a ragout of lamb with flageolet beans, duck confit with braised red cabbage or calf's liver with parsley, sage and wild mushrooms.