Château des Crès Ricards, Stécia, AOP Terrasses du Larzac, HVE3, Rouge

The estate was established in 1960 in the locality known as “Les Crès Ricards” in the commune of Ceyras. In 2010, Jean-Claude Mas acquired its 27 hectares and expanded the vineyard to 42 hectares by 2013. He was captivated by the exceptional terroir of the Terrasses du Larzac, renowned for producing smooth wines with intense aromatics. Nestled at the foot of Mont Baudile, the vineyard benefits from a unique geography composed of red clay, schist, and round pebbles. Yields are kept low and grape selection is rigorous to ensure generous, high-quality wines. In 2012, Jean-Claude Mas further extended the vineyard by acquiring neighboring plots, bringing the estate to its current size of 42 hectares.

Soil: Clay-limestone terraces with rolled pebbles
Vine age: 25–55 years
Pruning: Cordon de Royat
Planting density: 4,400 vines/ha
Harvesting: Manual
Average yield: 60 hl/ha
Altitude: 80 meters
Climate: Mediterranean

Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes are sorted on a vibrating table.
The Grenache undergoes traditional fermentation with daily pump-overs and rack-and-return operations. Maceration lasts from 2 to 4 weeks.
The Carignan is vinified using whole-cluster carbonic maceration for 15 to 18 days.

45% of the final blend is aged for 8 months in oak barrels — one-third French oak and two-thirds American oak.
Within this portion: one-third new barrels, one-third one-year-old, and one-third two-year-old barrels.
The remaining 55% is aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve fruit freshness.