A seventh-generation vigneron, Matthieu Barret studied viticulture in Beaune before joining his grandfather in Cornas in 1997. After inheriting a parcel of vines from his grandfather, who used to sell grapes to the local co-operative, Matthieu built up his own domaine in this famed Rhône appellation. He immediately began working the vines organically and produced his first vintage in 2000.
Domaine du Coulet now comprises 11.1 hectares of vines, planted on steep south/southeast-facing terraces carved into the granite rock of Cornas. The vine roots are forced to penetrate deep into the granite, leading to small yields and concentrated, powerful wines. The vines are, on average, 40 to 55 years old and certified both organic and biodynamic.
The ‘Brise Cailloux’ uses fruit from the terraced vineyards’ mid and lower slopes. It is aged for 18 months, mainly in 20-hectolitre diamond-shaped concrete vats with a small amount in six-hectolitre amphorae. It has an expressive nose of bold red fruits with fennel and white pepper touches. The palate is fresh with cherry and blackberry fruit, structured tannins and a long mineral finish.
