Limoux is a small wine region in Languedoc, just south of the famous city of Carcassonne. It’s a little cooler here than in the rest of the Languedoc and the focus is on the white and sparkling wines. Domaine J. Laurens is totally concentrated on sparkling and I was very impressed with their Crémant de Limoux. The estate of 30 hectares is run by Jacques Calvel. The grapes are Chardonnay, Chenin, Mauzac and Pinot Noir. The wines ferment a second time in bottle and are kept on the lees between 12 and 24 months before disgorging.
Crémant de Limoux Brut 2012 Les Graimenous, Domain J. Laurens: Very good Crémant de Limoux with an aftertaste like a good Champagne. Rich, toasty aromas, ripe apples, lovely freshness. The grapes are 60 % Chardonnay, 30 % Chenin, 5 % Mauzac and 5 % Pinot Noir. A perfect aperitif. Great value at around 10 euros in France.
Crémant de Limoux Brut 2012, Clos des Demoiselles, Domain J. Laurens: Fine complexity, ripe fruit, some notes of honey and brioche. Quite powerful and a nice, long finish. Enjoy it as an aperitif or with food. The grapes are 60 % Chardonnay, 25 % Chenin and 15 % Pinot Noir. Also very good value at around 12 euros in France.
I strongly recommend both wines!
More info on jlaurens.fr.
