Made by: Virginie Maignien, La Spanda
Location : Roussillon, France
Grape varieties: Lledoner Pelut, Grenache noir
SO2: Low sulfites
Certification: Organic and Biodynamic
 
Description:
A Grenache blend of Grenache and its wilder cousin, Lledoner Pelut, sourced from biodynamically farmed vineyards in the city of Calce, where chaotic schist and limestone soils define the terroir. The Lledoner vines are 40 years old, while the Grenache vines are just 6. Whole-bunch maceration lasted 10 days, with only the pressed juice aged in barrel and vat. Lightly sulfited at harvest and post-fermentation. Fresh, vibrant, and fleshy, this is Grenache with energy. 
 
About the producer:
Virginie Maignien has an unconventional career, initially worked in the museum sector after graduating from  the pretigious ESSEC Business School. Nearing 30, she realized life is short and pursued her passion for wine, training at CFPPA in Beaune. 
She then co-managed the Domaine Causse Marines in Gaillac with Patrice Lescarret, producing natural wine for about 15 years there. 
In 2019, Virginie launched La Spanda in Calce, located in the heart of the Catalan Corbières at an altitude of 300 meters, between the sea and mountains, combining her love for the land, art and yoga. She has created a space that respects nature and encourages freedom. 
The Domaine de la Spanda is being converted to biodynamics, reflecting her commitment to harmony with nature.
She embodies Saint Francis of Assisi’s ideal “who works with his hands is a worker, who works with his hands and his head is an artisan, who works with his hands, his head and his heart is an artist”
 
Total surface of the domain: 4.5 ha