For six generations, the historic Mayard estate has thrived, continuously improving under a progressive philosophy. With organic certification, Françoise is evolving and expanding a remarkable legacy.
“Our approach to viticulture places biodiversity and soil quality at the forefront. We restructure our plots’ soils by sowing various plant species. These cover crops capture solar energy to retain freshness, water, and humidity in the soil. As they decompose, they add significant organic matter, benefiting the soil’s living organisms and the vines.”
Françoise, along with her children Nicolas and Coline, represent the 5th and 6th generations of winemakers at the esteemed Clos du Calvaire family estate in Châteauneuf-du-Pape (formerly Vignobles Mayard). The 33-hectare estate, certified organic, is shared by Françoise and her sister Béatrice. Their great-great-grandfather, Gratien Mayard, began planting the historical parcels in 1989.
The estate, with its very old vines and meticulous farming practices, embraces innovative techniques such as no-tilling, spontaneous fermentation, amphora aging, and minimal sulfur use. These methods produce vibrant wines with complexity and excellent aging potential.
Building on generations of experience, Françoise has dedicated over 30 years to the family winery, managing over 20 parcels with some of the best terroirs in the appellation.
Continue reading below for key information regarding Clos du Calvaire, or, if you’re ready to explore the vineyards of France for yourself, check out our Luxury Wine and Food Tours in France.
If you have any questions about the wineries we visit on our Luxury Wine Experiences in France please get in touch.
40% Clairette, 30% Grenache Blanc, 20% Roussanne, 10% Bourboulenc
This white blend is full-bodied and expressive with dense floral aromatics, yellow apple, citrus, peach, and white lavender. Even with such intense and expressive aromatics, the mineral core still shines through acting as an anchor to an otherwise extravagant wine experience. The palate is creamy and round with honeycomb, mint, and lime.
100% Grenache
Elegant red fruits abound with old-vine concentration and a complex array of flowers and fresh herbs like thyme. With great sapidity, the structured core is dense and layered, complimented by the wild berry fruit. The finish is long and adds notes of spice and earth. A pleasurable wine which will age for a decade or more.
40% Grenache, 30% Clairette, 30% Roussane (different blend by vintage)
This white wine is pure pleasure and embodies the way this natural landscape in the Southern Rhone valley feels. With the frequent winds, typical of this area, the air feels alive and aromatized with fresh herbs. The white wine from Françoise is expressive with layered aromatics of fresh flowers, honeycomb, apricot, and tropical fruits. The texture is full, round, and silky and the finish is relaxed yet lively and lingering.
Side project by F/R – Françoise Roumieux
60% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah (different blend by vintage)
When you open a bottle of the Côtes du Rhône, what stands out for this classic category is the depth of savory complexity and dark powerful fruit. From the usual suspects, Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, the compelling aromatics and flavors immediately grab your attention and signal, this is a special wine. Françoise buys a small amount of fruit from friends who have the same vision for sustainable/organic farming that she does.
Side project by F/R – Françoise Roumieux
75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre, 5% Cinsault (different blend by vintage)
Enough color, fruit, and alcohol to satisfy California wine lovers, this wine also has an earthy structure indicative of the Southern Rhône Valley. Wild berry fruits, raspberry and blackberry, lead with a strong undertone of grilled herbs, pepper, and smoked meat. The palate is lush and full without being heavy and the finish lingers with youthful energy.
Side project by F/R – Françoise Roumieux