Domaine Ribiera

Christine and Regis Pichon, a passionate winemaking couple, embarked on their journey in the picturesque Languedoc region. With 7.5 hectares of sloping shiste hills, Regis cultivates a diverse range of grape varieties. His inspiration for natural winemaking came from a revelatory bottle of Pierre Overnoy from Arbois in the Jura. Formerly a sommelier at esteemed wine establishments, Regis now ferments with native yeasts, adding minimal sulfur only at bottling to produce approximately 22,000 bottles annually. Their dream is to co-own a larger winery in the future, driven by their dedication to crafting clean, expressive, and drinkable natural wines.


About the Winemaker

Domaine Ribiera

Regis Pichon, hailing from the Languedoc region, tends to 7.5 hectares of vineyards in Aspiran, cultivating a diverse array of grape varieties including Cinsault, Syrah, Grenache, Terette, Roussanne, and Clairette on sloping shiste hills. His journey into winemaking began after a transformative encounter with a Pierre Overnoy wine from the Jura, which inspired him to transition from sommelier to vigneron. Leasing a small winery and sharing space with David Caer, Regis practices natural winemaking, fermenting with indigenous yeasts and using minimal sulphur additions at bottling for his annual production of around 22,000 bottles, with aspirations of co-owning a larger winery in the future.

The Region

Languedoc, France

In the sun-drenched region of Languedoc in southern France, natural winemaking is gaining momentum, offering a fresh perspective on this historic wine-producing area. Stretching from the rugged hills of the Cévennes to the picturesque shores of the Mediterranean, Languedoc boasts a rich tapestry of terroirs and grape varieties. Natural winemakers here embrace sustainable farming practices, often cultivating their vines organically or biodynamically to ensure the health of the land and the purity of the fruit. They eschew additives and excessive manipulation in the cellar, allowing the grapes to ferment spontaneously and express their true character. The result is a diverse range of wines that capture the essence of the Mediterranean climate, with reds showcasing the boldness of Carignan and Syrah, and whites highlighting the freshness of Grenache Blanc and Picpoul. Languedoc's natural wines are known for their vibrant fruit flavors, lively acidity, and a sense of place that reflects the region's rich cultural heritage. As the demand for authentic, artisanal wines continues to grow, Languedoc stands as a beacon of innovation and tradition in the world of natural winemaking.