Organic Wines from Gaillac —
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know About Domaine Gayrard Near Gaillac
Everything you want to know about our biodynamic practices, our native Gaillac grape varieties, tours of the estate, and purchasing our wines online or from our partners. The estate is located in Milhavet, between Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel in the Tarn department.
What is biodynamics?
Biodynamics is a holistic approach to agriculture that goes far beyond simple organic viticulture. At Domaine Gayrard, a 10-hectare estate, we have been practicing biodynamics since 2019. It involves treating the vineyard as a living organism in its own right, in harmony with lunar and planetary rhythms. In practice, we use no chemical fertilizers or synthetic pesticides, and we rely on natural preparations—such as horn silica or cow manure compost—to stimulate soil life and enhance the vitality of the vines. This philosophy allows us to faithfully and authentically express the limestone terroir of Gaillac in each of our wines. All of our wines have been DEMETER-certified since the 2023 vintage.
What grape varieties are grown at Domaine Gayrard?
True to the identity of the Gaillac vineyards, we grow native grape varieties from the Southwest and Gaillac, which are perfectly suited to our clay-limestone soil. For our white wines, Loin de l’Œil is our flagship variety: rare and delicate, it produces wines with great aromatic freshness that are both balanced and harmonious. We also cultivate Mauzac, Gaillac’s iconic grape variety and the basis for our sparkling wines made using the traditional Gaillac method, as well as Ondenc, a long-forgotten grape variety from the Gaillac appellation that is making a strong comeback. On the red side, Braucol—also known as Fer-Servadou—and Duras bring structure, fine tannins, and character to our single-varietal wines. This commitment to local grape varieties is a powerful expression of our identity: it allows us to offer wines unlike any others, wines that tell a story deeply rooted in our Occitan region.
How can I visit the Domaine Gayrard?
We welcome you to the estate year-round, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with no appointment needed for a tasting in the wine cellar. For those who wish to explore further, we offer guided tours of the winery and cellar, walks through the vineyards throughout the seasons, and picnics in the heart of the estate. These special moments will give you a deeper understanding of our biodynamic approach, allow you to discover the native grape varieties growing in our vineyards, and hear the story of Maison Gayrard firsthand. Le Bistrot Gayrard, our winery restaurant, rounds out the experience with regional cuisine paired with our own wines. For groups and private events, please contact us to arrange a fully customized visit.
Where can I buy organic Gaillac wines from Domaine Gayrard?
Our wines are available through three main channels, depending on your preference. Online, our store at maison-gayrard.com allows you to order directly from home and have your order delivered anywhere in France, with special care taken in packaging to ensure the bottles arrive safely. At the estate’s wine cellar in Milhavet (1 Hameau de Capendut, 81130), you can come select your bottles after a tasting on site, Tuesday through Saturday. Finally, we work with carefully selected partners— independent wine shops, restaurants, and specialty food stores —who share our values and champion terroir-driven wines. Feel free to contact us to find the retailer nearest you.
How do I get to Domaine Gayrard?
Domaine Gayrard is located at 1 Hameau de Capendut, 81130 Milhavet, on the northern edge of the Gaillac wine region, between Cordes-sur-Ciel and Albi. From Albi (about 20 km), head toward Cordes-sur-Ciel on the D600, then follow the signs to Milhavet. From Cordes-sur-Ciel (about 10 km), head down toward Milhavet on the D91. The estate is accessible by car, and parking is available on site. There is no direct public transportation to the hamlet of Capendut, so we recommend that you come by private vehicle. To find your way easily, you can use Google Maps with the address “1 Hameau de Capendut, 81130 Milhavet,” or call us directly at 06 98 17 58 35.
Do Domaine Gayrard's wine bottles have a deposit?
Yes, we have chosen to implement a bottle deposit system at Domaine Gayrard, in line with our values of biodynamic viticulture and our commitment to reducing our environmental impact. We are part of the national deposit network through our membership with Consign’up in Toulouse. Specifically, when you purchase a bottle at the wine cellar, a deposit (0.30 cents) is added to the price. To return it, you have two options: bring it back directly to the estate during your next visit, or drop it off at one of the partner stores participating in the deposit system in France—most notably Biocoop stores, which are located throughout France. It’s a simple gesture that aligns with the same philosophy behind the work we do in the vineyards: respecting our environment, reducing waste, and supporting local supply chains. If you have any questions about the process or would like to find the collection point nearest you, please feel free to contact us at 06 98 17 58 35.
When is the restaurant at Domaine Gayrard open?
Bistrot Gayrard (formerly La Guinguette) is our summer restaurant, open since 2020 in the heart of the vineyard, between Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel. Each season, we host a chef-in-residence: in 2026, Mylène Génique will be serving up hearty, seasonal cuisine made with local ingredients and paired with our organic Gaillac wines. The Bistrot is open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch, and Saturday evenings.
