La Ciaude is the flagship cuvee of Domaine Anne Gros et Jean-Paul Tollot, drawn from a single 3.1-hectare lieu-dit in the Cazelles subzone of the Minervois appellation. The vineyard name in local dialect means 'sun,' and the site's south-facing limestone and clay soils at 220 metres altitude provide both abundant ripeness and the mineral backbone that distinguishes the wine from the broader Minervois appellation. The parcel contains Carignan vines planted as far back as 1904, now over 120 years old.

The 2022 La Ciaude is a blend of approximately 35% Carignan, 35% Syrah and 30% Grenache, vinified in the Burgundian style with full destemming before aging in 80% oak barrels and 20% stainless steel. The century-old Carignan vines at the core of the cuvee contribute remarkable concentration, spice and tannic structure that set this wine apart from the more accessible Les Fontanilles cuvee. La Ciaude requires patience and rewards cellaring of five or more years before the tannins integrate and the full aromatic complexity emerges.

The La Ciaude parcel represents Anne Gros's original vision for the Minervois project: a single named site of exceptional quality, aged vine material and distinctive limestone mineral character that could produce wines of genuine Grand Cru ambition in the south of France. The combination of very old Carignan, limestone subsoil and a Burgundy-trained team's restraint in extraction and oak has produced consistent critical recognition for this cuvee across successive vintages.

Cellar for a minimum of four to five years. Best from 2027 to 2037. Decant two hours before service and pair with roasted venison, braised lamb shoulder or truffle-based preparations.