Mas Conscience

The Mas Conscience is one of the emblematic estates of the AOP Terrasses du Larzac, an appellation recognized for its driving role in the qualitative upmarket development of Languedoc wines. Founded on a coherent vision between terroir, organic viticulture and oenological precision, the Mas Conscience develops a deliberately demanding production, oriented towards wine legibility, mastery of balance and aging capacity.

Located in the foothills of the Larzac plateau, the Mas Conscience vineyard benefits from a natural environment particularly conducive to quality viticulture. The moderate to high altitude, combined with the cooling influence of the surrounding causses, helps temper the intense Mediterranean heat. The thermal amplitudes between day and night play a decisive role in preserving the grapes' natural acidity and in the aromatic construction of Mas Conscience wines.

The soils of Mas Conscience are characterized by great geological diversity, typical of the Terrasses du Larzac. They include hard limestone, marl, stony scree and more clay-limestone zones, offering variable drainage capacities and progressive water supply for the vines. This soil complexity enables fine grape varieties to be planted, with each plot worked according to its own characteristics. The Mas Conscience thus bases its identity on a precise reading of the terroir, without seeking uniformity.

The viticulture practiced at Mas Conscience is certified organic. It is based on the exclusion of herbicides and synthetic products, mechanical working of the soil and careful observation of the vines throughout the year. Treatments are limited to what is strictly necessary, mainly copper- and sulfur-based, with the aim of prevention rather than correction. This approach implies a constant presence in the vines and ongoing adaptation to the climatic conditions of each vintage.

The Mas Conscience considers organic farming an essential agronomic lever for understanding and expressing terroir. Maintaining soil microbial life, stimulating deep rooting and naturally regulating vigor are at the heart of the estate's approach. This philosophy aims to produce balanced grapes, capable of fermenting naturally and giving rise to stable wines, free from technological artifice.

The grape varieties grown at Mas Conscience reflect the historical identity of the AOP Terrasses du Larzac. Syrah forms a central pillar of the blends, providing structure, freshness and aromatic potential. Grenache plays a complementary role with its roundness, fruitiness and ability to balance blends. Mourvèdre adds depth, complexity and ageing potential, while Carignan, from old vines, brings tension, natural acidity and mineral expression. Each grape variety is vinified separately to preserve its typicity before final blending.

The harvests at Mas Conscience are carried out by hand, with rigorous sorting at the plot level. The choice of harvest dates is based on close observation of the grapes' physiological ripeness. The estate seeks a precise balance between phenolic ripeness, freshness and moderate alcoholic degrees. This approach aims to avoid over-ripe profiles, often associated with southern areas, and to produce taut, structured and digestible wines.

Winemaking at Mas Conscience takes a low-interventionist approach, without forgoing technical rigor. Fermentations are mostly carried out using indigenous yeasts, enabling a faithful expression of terroir and vintage. Extractions are controlled, with gentle pumping-over and punching-down adapted to the nature of each cuvée. The aim is to preserve the finesse of tannins and aromatic freshness, while ensuring sufficient structure for aging.

The aging of Mas Conscience wines is conducted with great precision. It takes place mainly in foudres, demi-muids or barrels, with a measured use of new wood. The choice of containers is designed to accompany the wine's evolution without masking its identity. Ageing times are adjusted according to the profile of each cuvée, with a view to natural stabilization and harmonizing balances.

The red wines of Mas Conscience present a structured yet balanced framework. Aromatic profiles revolve around ripe black and red fruits, spicy, sometimes peppery notes, and expressions of garrigue characteristic of Terrasses du Larzac. On the palate, tannins are present but integrated, supported by a natural acidity that brings length and freshness. The Mas Conscience wines are designed to be enjoyed young, while offering real ageing potential.

From a gastronomic standpoint, the Mas Conscience cuvées are a natural match for characterful cuisine. They accompany roasted or grilled meats, simmered dishes, recipes based on lamb, beef or game, as well as Mediterranean preparations with herbs and spices. Their balance and freshness also make them a perfect match for more refined contemporary cuisine.