Sylvain Respaut

In 2007, Sylvain Respaut moved to the Agly Valley as a beekeeper. He was inspired by a group of neo-vintners making vibrant, alive wines and decided, "This is what I want to do!" He took over a few hectares of old vines, converted them to organic farming, and after learning and collaborating for a few years, he partnered with Olivier Cros, a winemaker's son with a new vision for winemaking. Together, they created La Cave Apicole, producing natural, fruity wines, mead, and wildflower honey.

La Cave Apicole is located in the former cooperative cellar in Montner (Pyrénées-Orientales - 66) within the Fenouillèdes terroir. Since 2011, the vineyard has operated organically, respecting the soil, environment, and all living things. They avoid herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic products, using compost and organic matter instead. Grapes are hand-harvested at full ripeness, and natural winemaking processes with minimal intervention are employed. Fermentation occurs with wild yeasts and bacteria, with no added oenological products, fining, or filtration, and minimal sulfites. The result is fresh, flavorful wines meant to be enjoyed however you like.