DAY
(2)
After a well deserve night of rest, we will head for the the Minervois and the Corbieres.
These regions have been producing wines since it was introduced by Greek merchants, more than 2200 years ago. Vine is almost the only agricultural activity of this arid landscape.
After producing table wines of mediocre quality from the industrial revolution to the nineteen sixties, new vines were planted , rigorous selections made and new methods were applied. The results of this hard work and a bountiful sun are wonderfully generous wines.
The reds represents 95% of the region's production from a wide variety of cepages: Carignan, Syrah, Grenache noir, Lladoner Pelut, Mourvedre, Picpoul noir, Cinsault, Terret noir.
In Minervois, Jean Louis Poudou will
welcome us in the at the Chateau de la Tour Boisee*. (The *
placed after the property name, indicates an independent wine
maker). The owner will
present us his whites and reds, both firm, dense and aging very well
(Syrah, Grenache, Carignan)
En route for the Corbieres region to meet Sophie Guiraudon at her property, Le Clos de l'Anhel*. This small domain produces around 15000 bottles only, on 15 acres, planted with Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault and Mourvedre. A lunch of local products will be served by our hosts, in the vineyards, in the cave or at their home, depending of the weather.
On our way to our hotel, close to Narbonne, is the
Abbaye of Fonfroide, a
wonderfully preserved 9th to 12th century Cistercian abbey. Guided
visit.
After checking in, a casual dinner at our hotel will end the day.
First night and dinner at the Bastide de Cabezac, in Bize Minervois.
B - L - D
