Domaine de la Dourbie Launches Immersive Wine Experiences

Domaine de la Dourbie, in the south of France, opens a new chapter in its history to mark its 20th anniversary.

Domaine de la Dourbie in the heart of the Hérault Valley, near Saint Guilhem le Désert has reinvented itself to mark its 20 years of existence and is launching three immersive experiences. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, an interactive wine tour and open-air brunch with DJ, the first being held on July 28, 2024. 

Located at the foot of the Larzac plateau, between the Hérault River and its tributary, the Dourbie, this 20-hectare vineyard and three terroirs is preserved in biodiversity, with 1.8 hectares of black basaltic soil from the slopes of an extinct volcano.  

Founded in 1781, it was acquired by Bernard Serin and his sons Emmanuel and Nicolas in 2003. Following the tragic loss of Emmanuel, the domaine has spent three years redeveloping its brand and partnering with oenologist Sophie Brun-Mérimée, who is now technical director alongside Laurent Graell, deputy MD, who joined the winery in 2010. 

“In recognition of the new chapter that reflects our dynamism – we’re constantly thinking about the quality of our wines alongside wine tourism, focusing on immersive events and partnering with local producers on organic brands such as a 100% Rouveyrolles Valley dry gin from Simon Tardieu, of the Renard distillery in Gignac; Hérault beekeeper Serge Mora who will install beehives close to the Cinsault vines and olive oil from David Ferrando from Rocher des Fées in Vendémian,” said Laurent. 

“The Serin family has invested in building a modern winery, with its signature grape varieties: Terret Blanc and Grenache Gris for the whites, Cinsault for the reds and rosés of Oscar and lntemporal, 100% Carignan for Joseph and Grenache Noir for the Marius, Oscar and Mala Coste cuvées. 

“In 2023, the estate celebrated its 20th anniversary, and now La Dourbie heralds a new era for wine in the Languedoc: an independent winery with vines spread over several terroirs. We have also embarked on collaborations with local producers and craftsmen, to showcase the identity and character of our exceptional Rouveyrolles valley through products other than wine.”

In July and August, La Dourbie is offering picnics sourced from local producers, paired with organic wine from the estate. Everything, right down to the linen tablecloth, is recyclable and/or reusable.

Nearby, in the courtyard, a walk along the Dourbie river and along the pond allows guests to appreciate the beauty of the estate, with a pétanque court and hammocks to relax. 

The Interactive Oenotour follows the various stages in the winemaking process, along a signposted route from the cellar to the winery, via the vineyards. A digital platform, developed by Montpellier-based start-up VinoWays, illustrates the walk with videos and an audio guide.

For more information visit ladourbie.fr

To book a place at the brunch on July 28, call +33 (0)4 67 44 45 82 or sign up to their newsletter on their homepage.