Minervois PDO

It is one of the largest appellations in the Languedoc. With 4,400 hectares of vines classified as AOC, the Minervois region produces a wide variety of wines, especially reds, but also rosés and whites. In the Languedoc-Roussillon region, between Carcassonne and Narbonne, the Minervois vineyards stretch from the foothills of the Black Mountain to the banks of the Aude. Dense, round, fruity and balanced, the Minervois AOC will seduce you with its aromatic qualities, its ageing potential and its affordable prices.

General presentation of the Minervois appellation

The Minervois AOC is located in a vast natural amphitheatre facing south between Narbonne and Carcassonne. The hillsides stretch from the banks of the Aude to the Montagne Noire, between the Massif Central and the Pyrenees. With a surface area of 15,000 hectares, of which 4,400 are AOC vines, the Minervois has a big vision. The appellation area includes more than 60 communes, spread over the Aude and Hérault departments.

With different soils, altitudes and climates, this vast vineyard offers a rich palette of wines. We are used to distinguishing different terroirs, for example the Balcons de l'Aude, the Causses, the Canal du Midi, the Mourels... One of these terroirs of the Petit Causse, classified as a Cru du Languedoc, has its own AOC: Minervois-la-Livinière; it concerns only red wines.

Within the Minervois AOC, red wines are in the majority. They alone represent 84% of the production. Rosés are also part of the game, with about 13% of the production. The whites remain confidential: barely 3% of the production.

The main grape varieties, in red as in rosé, are carignan, grenache, syrah, mourvèdre and cinsault. For white wines, the main grape varieties used are white grenache, bourboulenc, macabeu, marsanne and roussanne.

It should be noted that another AOC, Muscat de Saint Jean de Minervois, is produced in this geographical area.

Characteristics of Minervois

Minervois AOC reds offer different qualities throughout their production area. Sometimes they are fruity and can be enjoyed within the year, sometimes they are exceptional wines for laying down that can be aged for more than 10 years.

In any case, this great Languedoc wine is distinguished by its deep red colour, which turns tile with the years. In the early years, the aromatic palette is dominated by fruit: blackcurrant, raspberry, blueberry..., a gourmet basket visited by a light touch of violet. Spices such as vanilla and cinnamon are regularly present and can be joined by a note of roasting.

The Minervois rosé is a pretty raspberry pink colour with a slight hint of tile. Its nose gives off typical aromas of the garrigue with a rich fruity palette of strawberry, grenadine and blackcurrant.

Finally, in white, the Minervois AOC reveals a pale yellow colour with golden reflections. Its aromas are also dominated by fruit: peach, pineapple, grapefruit, orange...

How to taste a Minervois

The red wines of the Minervois AOC are renowned for being the perfect accompaniment to a cassoulet or chicken with olives. This Languedoc wine also goes well with other generous dishes, such as duck confit, offal, risotto, navarin lamb, game stew... It is best served at a temperature of 16°.

The Minervois rosé is ideal for a summer aperitif, especially if accompanied by a platter of charcuterie and some grilled meats. It should be drunk at a temperature of about 10°.

Finally, served at around 12°, a white Minervois will enhance shellfish, seafood and grilled fish.