I want to create a flavour library of all the wild herbs, that grow freely in our vineyards in the foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains. For an Australian winemaker, it’s inspiring.
— NICHOLAS COATES DOMAINE NJC
Notre vie……..notre vin……
Organic. Hand picked. Basket Pressed. Barrel Fermented. Minimal intervention.
From humble beginnings, Domaine NJC was born by Nicholas Coates & his partner Alexandra. By no measure has this journey been easy. The good stories never are.
Together 5 years ago they purchased just enough vineyard to call Nick a Vigneron. Incredibly cheap vineyard, but it was vineyard none the less. So much work had to be done, the local farmers would scratch their heads and ask why is he not just ripping those vines up!
After completing his PhD in Biochemistry and working medical research Nick decided this is not want he wanted for his life. He left! Went back to university to do a Post Graduate Diploma in Oeneology at the University of Adelaide in 2003. As soon as he completed his studies he was off to France to learn all about the Languedoc particular as he loved the sound of it- the Wild West of France. It is here wine classifications are not so servere as in other regions of France. So with Nicks new world winemaking approaches and the selections of grape varieties found in the Languedoc this was where he wanted to carve out his place in the world for his brand.
Nick’s determination to see this through is by no means extraordinary. Perhaps it is their Australian mentality of hanging in there which has helped them see this though and a supportive cheer squad back in Australia & France.
The aim was to create a family run winery which celebrates the scents, and flavours of Languedoc by using organic viticultural practises with a minimal carbon footprint. Caring for the environment is a big part of who Nick is as a person and a winemaker. He truely believes if you want to put something into your body, it must be as healthy as possible, and so are Domaine NJC wines.
5 years on Nick & Alex have launched their wine on the market. And what satisfaction that was!
Our Domaine
Domaine NJC estate has 4.5 hectors of organic vineyards in the Malpère & the Pyrenées Orientales. The winery is nestled into the hillside of a 18 century terrace house in the heart of Alaigne, a village with a 1000 years of history. Here you will find Nick working on his wine and where you may come to visit by appointment only.
We hope to see you all soon.
Santé Bonheur
Nick & Alex
