At Saint‑Drézéry in the Hérault, Domaine Puech‑Haut has handed the operational reins to industry veteran Arnaud Demongeot, ushering in a fresh but respectful era alongside founder Gérard Bru. Rather than upend tradition, Demongeot aims to clarify the estate’s story and reinforce its Pic Saint‑Loup identity.
His first move: segment the range to protect flagship cuvées like Argali and Têtes de Bélier from supermarket channels. Only Argali will remain in both grocery and specialist outlets. Meanwhile, the core lineup gains precision—fresher, fruit‑driven, highly drinkable wines—backed by Michel Rolland’s consultancy and the return of a longtime in‑house œnologist.
On the vineyard front, Puech‑Haut is planting Rolle, experimenting with pergola trellises, and shifting volumes toward whites to balance today’s 65 percent rosé output. All plots follow organic methods, though only the group’s Lavabre and Theyron estates pursue formal certification.
An enduring hallmark—the artist‑decorated Bib’art bag‑in‑box—remains central to Puech‑Haut’s bold visual language, especially in restaurants and export markets.
Domestically, Demongeot doubles down on France’s traditional on‑trade, supported by a 60‑strong sales force, even as peers chase exports and short circuits. He also plans to expand œnotourism with barrel tastings, cultural events, and music nights at Clos du Pic—eschewing “bling” for meaningful shared experiences.
Leading a team that blends long‑time collaborators with young talent, Demongeot champions collective management and generational transmission—aptly symbolized by the new prototype bottle, which bears two facing ram heads in perfect equilibrium.