Jacques Frelin Vignobles, a pioneer in organic farming

In an era when environmental concerns were not yet mainstream, Jacques Frelin Vignobles has been a trailblazer in organic viticulture since 1966. The estate’s story began with Claude Jougla, the vineyard’s founder and Carole Frelin’s grandfather. After falling ill from pesticide exposure, Claude Jougla became one of the early advocates for organic farming, realizing the need to protect both the Earth and its people through healthier viticulture practices. He was ahead of his time, embracing organic methods when they were far from fashionable.

Available directly from the estate on Avenue des Vins.

How is the family carrying on the founder's vision today?

A legacy of organic innovation

Today, Jacques Frelin, along with his daughter Carole, continues to champion the cause of organic wine. Jacques recognized the potential of organic farming as early as 1983, and with Carole joining him, the impact of climate change became a central concern for the Frelin family. Their commitment to organic farming is not just a choice but a conviction.

What role does the estate play in the wider organic movement?

An advocate for organic wine

At Jacques Frelin Vignobles, the philosophy is clear: respect for the Earth and its people. The goal is to remain a pioneer and a leader in the organic wine market. Jacques Frelin’s motto, “It starts with us, each person makes a difference,” reflects his desire to inspire the entire wine industry to adopt organic practices, making organic wine the norm. This commitment is evident in numerous initiatives and responsibilities within the organic wine sector. Jacques Frelin is a co-founder of the global Millésime Bio fair, vice-president of SUDVINBIO, and provides technical and financial support to vineyards transitioning to organic agriculture.

Beyond organic cultivation, Jacques Frelin’s environmental efforts extend to other areas. The estate is working on reusing bottles to reduce energy and water consumption and supports The SeaCleaners, an organization dedicated to cleaning the oceans.

What can wine lovers expect from the range?

A diverse range of organic wines

At Jacques Frelin Vignobles, where the team is notably composed of 90% women, customer satisfaction is a driving force. The estate offers a diverse selection of around thirty cuvées, each unique and delicious. From the expressive and flavorful Hérisson Malin cuvées to the complex Pic Saint Loup and the elegant cuvées n° 35, there’s a wine to suit every taste. All the wines are 100% organic, offering the best quality-to-price ratio possible.

To highlight just one, the Hérisson Malin Sauvignon Blanc stands out. It features intense aromas of citrus and blackcurrant bud, with a lively and expressive character. This wine embodies Carole Frelin’s spirited and energetic personality, she fondly recalls her childhood days of jumping barefoot into the tractor bin to crush grapes!

With a legacy rooted in innovation and a future focused on sustainability, Jacques Frelin Vignobles continues to set standards in organic viticulture, offering exceptional wines that reflect their commitment to quality and the environment.

Discover the wines of Jacques Frelin Vignobles directly from the estate, at the estate price, in a short supply chain on Avenue des Vins.

Frequently asked questions about Jacques Frelin Vignobles

When did Jacques Frelin Vignobles turn to organic farming?

The switch dates back to 1966, a choice made by founder Claude Jougla, Carole Frelin's grandfather, after his health suffered from chemical treatments. The estate has stayed one of the historic names of organic wine ever since.

Where are the Jacques Frelin vineyards located?

They sit in the South of France, in the Languedoc, reaching up to the Pic Saint Loup appellation. This Mediterranean setting suits vines grown without synthetic products and shapes generous, sun-filled wines.

Which cuvées is the estate known for?

The range holds around thirty references, from the easy-drinking Hérisson Malin bottlings to appellation wines such as Pic Saint Loup, plus the cuvée n° 35. Every one carries 100% organic certification.

What does the Hérisson Malin Sauvignon taste like?

This white shows blackcurrant bud and citrus on the nose, with a brisk, energetic palate. Served chilled, it works for an aperitif or alongside seafood starters.

What are the estate's environmental commitments beyond organic wine?

Jacques Frelin co-founded the Millésime Bio trade fair and serves as vice-president of SUDVINBIO. The estate is also preparing to reuse its bottles and backs The SeaCleaners, a group working to clean up the oceans.