Alain Cazottes is featured in online food and dining journal The Daily Meal Geeking Out On Gaillac: “Secret” Wines from Southwest France Nov 30, 2016 | 12:41 pm By The Black Dress Traveler (Wanda Mann) Contributor From www.blackdresstraveler.com, by Wanda Mann Geeking Out On Gaillac: “Secret” Wines from Southwest France Carole Fontanier (Communications Manager, Wines of Gaillac), Fred Dex(Master Sommelier), Yours Truly, winemaker Nicolas Hirissou (Domaine du Moulin), and winemaker Alain Cazottes(Domaine des Terrisses). Blame it on Fred Dex, Master Sommelier – I recently spent an afternoon gleefully “geeking out on Gaillac.” Fred enthusiastically describes Gaillac as “one of the geekiest wine regions in France, if not the world” for the amazing diversity of its grapes and wine styles. From international varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah to lesser-known indigenous grapes like Loin de l’Oeil and and Duras, Gaillac is an absolute paradise for wine lovers in search of authentic, honest, and expressive wines that convey a sense of place. Located in Southwest France in the heart of the Midi-Pyrénées region, the Gaillac wine-growing region benefits from Mediterranean heat and the ocean humidity of Bordeaux. Gaillac lays claim to the oldest vineyards in Southwest France – their rich tradition of winemaking goes back 2,000 years. Gaillac wines are not cookie-cutter but do share a rugged elegance that is absolutely endearing. Although Gaillac wines are not yet a household name abroad, the secret is getting out. Domaine des Terrisses 2014 ($15) is a delicious introduction to the Gaillac style. A blend of Loin de l’Oeil (70%), Mauzac (20%), and Sauvignon Blanc (10%), this dry white wine’s lively tropical, citrus, and herbaceous flavors taste quite unique but have a tinge of familiarity. Domaine des Terrisses has been the property of the Cazottes family since 1750 and their 7 generations of experience is evident in their award-winning wines. Alain Cazottes, Domaine des Terrisses Domaine des Terrisses also produces a wonderful red – Grand Tradition Rouge 2014 ($15). A balanced blend of Braucol (50%), Duras (30%) and Syrah (20%), this bold wine has a rustic elegance and flavors of dark cherry, blackcurrant, and a touch of pepper. A great match with a steak or burger.