Portraits of winemakers

CLOS SORIAN: LANGUEDOC WINES WITH A BORDEAUX INFLUENCE

"I Wanted to Reconnect with My Winemaker Soul"

A Journey from Bordeaux to Languedoc

Originally from Montpellier, Florent Granier is a true Languedocien. However, his love for his native region did not prevent him from falling in love with another, very different wine region: Bordeaux. "I honed my skills in the Margaux appellation. After exploring Bordeaux’s winemaking techniques, I felt it was time to return home and put my knowledge into practice. I wanted to reconnect with my 'winemaker soul' and create my own wines," recalls Florent.

Clos Sorian: "Mature Wines with Great Aging Potential"

Florent left the Bordeaux vineyards to return to his homeland. He settled at Clos Sorian, a small 7.5-hectare property located in the Pays d’Oc. This small-scale enterprise allows him to control the winemaking process from start to finish and produce wines he can relate to as a former Bordeaux winemaker. "My goal was to fully exploit the Languedoc terroir while infusing my Bordeaux expertise into my wines. Therefore, I adapt my winemaking methods to the Languedoc climate. My wines are aged, like Médoc wines, which requires ripe grapes during harvest. That’s why I always harvest 2 to 3 weeks later than my Languedoc colleagues, usually in early October," explains Florent.

"An Osmosis Between Two Types of Wines with My Bordeaux Touch"

The Clos Sorian range also caters to younger preferences. "The new generation of wine drinkers enjoys fruity, round, and light wines—qualities found in Margaux wines. Our range thus presents a beautiful blend of these two types of wines, imbued with my Bordeaux touch," emphasizes the winemaker, who is considering starting white wine production soon.

"Le Petit Caveau": Tastings in the Heart of Montpellier

Dedicated to showcasing the wine potential of his home region, Florent created Sorian Sélection, a partnership with other regional winemakers aimed at encouraging young Languedoc vintners to produce their own wines. "We provide technical support and guidance to help keep Languedoc alive through quality wine production," notes Florent. This spirit of discovery and meeting is reflected in Montpellier as well. Two years ago, Florent opened Le Petit Caveau, a private tasting venue where he organizes after-work events and food and wine pairing workshops. "We also have cottages north of Montpellier, where we host guests for personalized tastings of our cuvées," adds Florent.