Chateau Maris has earned Ecocert, Biodyvin, and Demeter certifications to date. As you can see, obtaining all three simultaneously is indeed difficult. Ecocert, being a natural and organic certification, is more common and relatively easier to obtain in Europe, but Biodyvin and Demeter certifications are significantly more challenging due to their stricter regulations (for example, the requirements for using less copper sulfate per hectare and natural yeast fermentation are quite stringent).
Furthermore, the winery received BCorp certification in 2016. Currently, only six wineries in Europe and only 30 worldwide hold this certification. BCorp certification recognizes the many initiatives Chateau Maris has already undertaken and inspires us to do even more, not only to address climate change and enhance biodiversity but also to create a better local community. We have commissioned a land biodiversity study and developed conservation measures for endangered species. In addition, we have implemented a shrub and tree planting program to plant more vegetation between vineyards to encourage and support the reproduction of native species. Of the 90 hectares of land in the entire winery, 50% is a wild forest park environment, which is excellent for maintaining the health of the soil and environment, ensuring that the grapes grown there will be of exceptional quality.
Region
Chateau Maris, located in the Cru Minervois La Liviniere AOC in Languedoc-Roussillon, southern France, was the first winery in this AOC to receive full Biodynamic certification, making it a pioneer of biodynamic farming in southern France. Many other wineries in southern France followed in Chateau Maris's footsteps and adopted biodynamic practices.
Chateau Maris is the world's only Hemp Winery built entirely of brick, a mixture of wood, hemp, straw, and lime. This means that even if the entire winery were to be demolished and returned to dust, it would be biodegradable and recyclable. This audacious idea came from owner Robert Eden. During the winemaking and fermentation process, carbon dioxide is released—a major contributor to global warming—but the hemp bricks at this winery can absorb this carbon dioxide, thus reducing the winery's environmental impact. The winery has two layers of walls with gaps in between to allow air to circulate. This design makes the interior of the winery seem insulated from the outside, keeping the indoor temperature stable at around 17 degrees Celsius all year round. In the summer, when the temperature outside in southern France is over 30 degrees Celsius, the winery is only 17 degrees Celsius. How amazing is that?
Winemaking
If you take the Chemin des Planels, you will walk along vertically-stepped dry stone walls. These walls, typical of La Livinière, serve to mitigate the erosive effects of water and maintain the soil on the terraces where the “Les Planels” Syrah grapes have been grown for over 35 years. Surrounded by pine trees, the vineyard receives ample exposure to the sun and imparts to this vintage generosity and a good structure whose intensity is felt even in its aroma. This vintage fully expresses the typical La Livinière terroir.
Thyme, rosemary, some menthol notes, a touch of lavender, this aromatic bouquet propels you into the heart of the vine. In the mouth, this sunny wine communicates over the full length of the tongue: a bouquet of already complex aromas with some notes of sautéed black cherries, blackcurrant, licorice, pepper and cold meats. Dark purple color. Rich, full-bodied, yet elegant and seamless, with an impressive texture. An integrated acidity and a beautiful elegance, making you come back to the glass. Aging potential: 7-10 years. Grape Varieties: Syrah & Grenache (15% max).
