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Corbières

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The Corbières appellation extends from the gates of Carcassonne to the ancient island of Leucate, from the foothills of the Pyrenees to the foothills of the Montagne Noire. The Corbières vineyards cover some 13,500 hectares, with an annual production of around 550,000 hectolitres.

The Corbières vineyards form a vast quadrilateral where the traces of an eventful geological history can be seen. Corbières vineyards are planted on predominantly clay-limestone soils, with variations depending on the terroir: red sandstone at Boutenac, stony terraces at Lézignan, grey marl at Quéribus and Serviès, schist in the upper Corbières and coral limestone on the Mediterranean coast. The Corbières appellation is subject to the Mediterranean influence, which can be seen to the east in the typical vegetation of the garrigue. Some of the more westerly terroirs feel the oceanic influence.

Corbières wines, produced in three colors (red, rosé and white), are made from Carignan (50% maximum), Syrah, Grenache Noir, Lladoner Pelut, Mourvèdre, Piquepoul noir, Cinsault and Terret noir for reds and rosés. Corbières white wines are made from Bourboulenc - known here as Malvoisie - Grenache blanc, Maccabeu, Clairette, Muscat (maximum 10%), Piquepoul, Terret blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Rolle or Vermentino. Vinification is traditional for reds and whites, with no bleeding or direct pressing for rosés. Château d'Aussières, Château Vieux Moulin, Domaine Maxime Magnon and Château La Voulte-Gasparets have all mastered the art of working with these grape varieties .

Today, Corbières producers are moving towards organic farming (around 45,000 hl) and sustainable development. This is reflected in recycling initiatives, the introduction of sheep to mow down weeds, and the reduction in the use of motorized vehicles.

Oenological description of Corbières wines

Corbières red wine is distinguished by its dark red to violet color. The taste is full-bodied, with berries at first. Spicy, peppery flavors follow.

Tasting suggestions: La Forge Gérard Bertrand, Domaine du Grand Arc - Cuvée des 40, Château de Lastars.

Corbières rosé is salmon-pink in color. It has a light, fruity aroma on the palate. While the red Corbières has notes of blackberry and blackcurrant, the rosé version offers notes of strawberry and cherry.

Tasting suggestions: Château Montfin, Villemajou, Cave de Castelmaure.

Corbières white wine ranges in color from white to light yellow. Unlike the red and rosé versions, it has floral, plum and anise notes.

Tasting suggestions: Le Blanc Paysan 2015, Corbières Carte Noire Roque Sestières 2015 or a Château Voulte Gasparets 2016

Wine and food pairing with Corbières wines

Knowing how to accompany a dish with a good wine is very important for optimal tasting. Corbières wines are unique in that they can be adapted to a wide range of menus.

White Corbières wine is very versatile, as it can be served with a plate of charcuterie, rack of veal or burrata. It also goes well with fish such as cod and shellfish such as King Crab. It underscores the spicy elements of dishes such as mustard, chorizo....

If you suggest a bottle of Corbières rosé wine with game, you're on the right track. It will enhance a kangaroo stew or a duck breast. This wine goes perfectly with Creole cuisine, a fish curry or an Asian dish such as beef in satay sauce. It can also enhance the taste of vegetarian dishes such as tomato crumble.

Finally, Corbière red wine is an ideal partner for poultry-based dishes such as country-style fondue, Chop Suey chicken or goose leg. It is also ideal for citrus-based dishes.

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