Eric Texier Chat Fou 2024

Bordeaux-born Eric Texier followed an unconventional path into wine. Originally trained as a nuclear engineer and without a family background in viticulture, he developed his craft through extensive reading, visits with growers around the world, and formative work with Jean-Marie Guffens at Verget in Burgundy. He and his wife, Laurence, have lived near Lyon for many years.

Eric began as a small négociant, seeking out exceptional parcels farmed by thoughtful growers and vinifying the fruit himself. His curiosity led him to nearly forgotten corners of the Rhône, most notably Brézème and Saint-Julien-en-Saint-Alban, where he has played a defining role in reviving their historic vineyards. Over time, he evolved from négociant to vigneron and today owns or rents most of the vines behind his wines, including replanted parcels of Syrah and Roussanne. Only his Côte-Rôtie, Rasteau, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape cuvées continue to rely on purchased fruit.

A restless researcher and natural boundary-pusher, Eric continually explores ways to adapt viticulture and winemaking to a changing climate—from cover crops and his own grafting work to forgotten grape varieties, amphora-aged Marsanne, and gentle “infusion” macerations. His wines are fermented with native yeasts and raised in neutral vessels, with little extraction and minimal sulfur or intervention. The result is a singular collection of wines prized for their vitality, transparency, and joyful expression of place.

Fun facts: Chat Fou is now being sourced from the granite terroirs of Saint-Julien, giving it a very fruity, easy style compared to most CDR. Eric also adds about 20% of white grapes to lighten the blend. The wine's name translates to "Crazy Cat" and is named after one of the Texier's cats who was in fact quite crazy. Appellation: Vin de France Winemaking: 40% max of destemming, very short short four day maceration, fermented and aged in concrete.

Grapes: 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, 20% white grapes 

SO2: At Bottling 

Soil Composition: Granite 

Farming: Organic (certified) 

Age of vines: 30 years old 

Exposure: South

Fining/Filtration: Unfined/Unfiltered 

Aromatics of violets, fresh cut strawberries, yellow plums, and bramble. Medium body with crisp tart red fruit and just the right amount of grip and spice through the mineral and savory finish. A great alternative to your typical Cotes-du Rhone.

Producer: Eric Texier

Country: France

Region: Rhône

Varietal: Cinsault, Grenache, Clairette

Appellation: Vin de France

Vintage: 2024

Size: 750ml