Calmel & Joseph: Crafting Authentic Organic Wines from Languedoc’s Terroirs
Founded in 1995 by Laurent Calmel and Jérôme Joseph, Calmel & Joseph has established itself as one of the leading organic wine producers in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. The estate, located near Montirat, just outside Carcassonne, manages a property spanning 200 hectares, of which 20 hectares are under vine. The remaining land is devoted to preserving biodiversity, with olive groves, lavender fields, almond orchards, and beehives. Their approach blends tradition with innovation, ensuring their wines reflect the rich history and unique terroirs of Languedoc.
Terroir and Vineyards
Calmel & Joseph’s vineyards are spread across various terroirs within Corbières, Minervois, Limoux, and Cabardès. The diversity of terroirs—ranging from limestone, clay-limestone, and schist soils—adds complexity and character to the wines. Some vineyards, particularly those in Limoux and Minervois, are planted at higher elevations, reaching between 300 and 400 meters. These cooler, elevated sites allow for a slower ripening process, enhancing acidity and providing balance, particularly in varieties like Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Marsanne, and even Pinot Noir. These vineyards also benefit from the influence of the Mediterranean, which adds layers of minerality and complexity.
Calmel & Joseph also plant a range of white varieties, including Vermentino, Marsanne, and Roussanne, particularly in the limestone-rich soils of Limoux and Cabardès. These sites, characterized by cool nights and warm days, produce aromatic, crisp whites with refreshing acidity.
Organic and Sustainable Practices
The estate follows certified organic farming practices across all vineyards, avoiding herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers. They use plant-based treatments, such as sulfur and copper, and natural extracts to protect the vines. By enriching the soils with cover crops like barley and faba beans, they increase nitrogen levels and improve soil structure. The focus on sustainability extends to preserving biodiversity on the estate, which is home to a variety of local wildlife thanks to the planting of native vegetation and the use of beehives. The result is a balanced, thriving ecosystem that contributes to the health of the vines.
Winemaking Philosophy
In the cellar, winemaker Laurent Calmel applies a philosophy of low-intervention winemaking, allowing each wine to express its natural terroir characteristics. The estate uses a combination of stainless steel tanks and large oak barrels, with the reds being aged to enhance texture without overpowering the wines with too much oak influence. The fermentation process is slow, with indigenous yeasts playing a key role in maintaining the purity of the fruit.
Calmel & Joseph produces a wide range of wines across multiple categories: red, white, rosé, and even sparkling wines. Their popular Villa Blanche line, known for its freshness and accessibility, showcases single-varietal expressions, while their Les Terroirs collection highlights the unique terroir of each appellation.
