Thierry Tastu: Sustainable Viticulture in Languedoc

Thierry Tastu started a new chapter in his life 20 years ago. After his first job in the public sector at the Montpellier Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where he helped raise the region’s international profile, he took over the reins of Domaine de Fontenelles following his mother’s death.

Thierry Tastu: a 63-year-old winemaker who is still just as active in the vineyards of Domaine de Fontenelles

Now 63 years old, my energy remains as strong as ever. Twenty years ago, I left my international career behind to take over the Domaine de Fontenelles following my mother’s passing. This estate, located in Douzens at the heart ofthe Corbières appellation on the famous Montagne d’Alaric, has been a family affair for five generations. My son, now a notary, would also like to take up the torch… and that will happen at his own pace and, above all, when he’s ready!

Above all, the family is committed to ensuring the estate’s long-term future… and the old Carignan and Mourvèdre vines that my grandfather planted over 80 years ago certainly bear that out. I am very proud of these old vines; they are our family heritage.

A Commitment to Quality and Environmental Stewardship at Domaine de Fontenelles

When I took over the estate, I surrounded myself with the best partners for our various areas of operation: winemaking, bottling, logistics, and marketing. I still work today with the same dedication I had when I was at the Montpellier Chamber of Commerce and Industry, always prioritizing quality. Low yields, sustainable farming, hand-harvesting, traceability… We’ve made choices, and we stand by them. We want to prioritize respect for the environment and traditions, while always ensuring customer satisfaction. At Domaine de Fontenelles, for example, we’ve implemented a very comprehensive approach, includingenvironmental certification such as ISO 26000 for wastewater treatment. In fact, we were among the first in the region to implement it. And the Alaric mountain range has rewarded us handsomely. This terroir, renowned for its wines, provides Domaine de Fontenelles (across 40 hectares) with 5 cuvées that regularly win awards at international competitions, whether under the Corbières AOP or the Côteaux de Miramont IGP!

Wines from Domaine de Fontenelles are available in Europe, China, Japan, and Russia

Another of my passions is travel. So it was only natural that the estate turned its focus to the export market, which ultimately means our wines are quite rare in France—except on the Les Grappes website! However, throughout Europe, Russia, Japan, and China, you’ll find Domaine de Fontenelles wines at the finest wine shops and restaurants.

I’ve always traveled all over the world with the Montpellier Chamber of Commerce and Industry. My wife Nelly, on the other hand, isn’t too keen on it. Over time, I’ve cut back on my travels, but that doesn’t mean I’ve given up on international business. In fact, my wife and I have set up guest rooms at the estate to welcome our clients. Today, the world comes to visit us. The art of hospitality is no empty phrase at Fontenelles. Today, our new project is to expand the wine cellar and build a reception hall to accommodate groups of more than 20 people, allowing us to share our passion with a wider audience.

Find wines from Domaine de Fontenelles (Languedoc) on Les Grappes