At Villa Dria, whose name recalls the ancient past of the Eauze region, Côtes de Gascogne wines are structured with the intelligence of the soil and the right expression of its geological potential.
Fruity freshness
Originally from Flanders, the Drieux family acquired Villa Dria in the 50s. On this welcoming land in the Gers region, the vineyard then covered 20 hectares. In 1993, Jean-Pierre Drieux succeeded his father, who had previously been a member of an Armagnac cooperative. A love of nature and a commitment to a lifestyle in harmony with the seasons were the driving forces behind his decision. From then on, the vineyard flourished, reaching 75 hectares today. The year 2006 was particularly significant, marking the decision to leave the cooperative system and build the current winery. Thus, in 2010, Villa Dria produced its first vintages. The white wines, typical of the Côtes de Gascogne, hold pride of place. The winemaking philosophy is clearly defined: to achieve a beautiful balance between fruit and freshness . For Jean-Pierre Drieux, wine is first and foremost an ambassador of the terroir, forged by geological forces.
Telluric forces
For a man who listens to nature, protecting the environment is a priority. Villa Dria is one of the areas labeled High Environmental Quality. To this qualification, which guarantees a respectful relationship with the environment, is added a philosophy inspired by geobiology and biodynamics. Strengthening the natural resistance of the vines to disease, running a cellar built in a location favorable to the quality of the wine, are the main lines of Villa Dria. Taken with care, the vineyard thrives on soil of boulbènes and tawny sands. The local grape varieties are their business. Here grow Petit and Gros Mansengs, Colombard, then Sauvignon and Chardonnay. They mix with Merlot and Cabernet for a unique red cuvée. The earth itself, approached by its telluric forces, is found there determining the management of the vineyard and guarantor of the expressive richness of its fruits.
Expressive power
At Villa Dria, whose name inherits the ancient winemaking tradition of Eauze, wine is first and foremost the story of a thousand-year-old terroir. Its history unfolds in two chapters, each hinting at its richness: Nature Gourmande and Nature Intense . The first begins by expressing the full freshness of the fruit, in two whites and a rosé. Côte Sauvage explores the fruity frankness of Colombard blended with Sauvignon Blanc. Fleur des Fées seeks the enchantment of a radiant rosé. Jardin Secret reveals the sweetness of mellow Gros Manseng. Following this initial burst of fruit, the second chapter opens the pages to other powerful wines. Terre de Feu plays on the warm alliance of Chardonnay and Gros Manseng. Clef du Sol , Villa Dria's only red, captures the elegance of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Lune de Miel illuminates the aromatic power and seductive sweetness of Petit Manseng with its deep, clear sky. Clearly, there is poetry in the wines of Jean-Pierre Drieux. It is written with the sap that comes from the depths of the earth, drawn towards the light by the deep and luminous passion for his terroir.