Roussillon wines

The Roussillon region is like an amphitheater, dominated by the often difficult-to-cross heights that separate it from neighboring provinces. To the north of Roussillon lie the dizzying slopes of the Corbières limestone barrier; to the west, the Roussillon cirque is dominated by the Canigou massif; to the south, the Albères massif and the Roc de France form the border with Spain.

The Roussillon climate is characterized by a dry summer season and rainy autumn and early spring. This Mediterranean climate, influenced by the nearby mountains, favors the ripening of the grapes. Geologically speaking, Roussillon is a tormented area that underwent profound upheavals in the Tertiary and Quaternary eras. As a direct consequence of these many upheavals, the variety of Roussillon's soils and subsoils makes for fascinating geological walks, with each of the four main terroirs itself divided into a multitude of zones with very distinct characteristics, sometimes recognized by a particular AOC.

The main grape varieties of Roussillon wines are Carignan, Grenache, Lladoner Pelut, Mourvèdre and Syrah for red wines, especially those recognized by a local AOC such as Côtes du Roussillon Villages. White Roussillon wines are essentially made from Grenache blanc, Macabeu, Malvoisie, Muscat, Marsanne, Roussanne and Vermentino. Roussillon also boasts some famous appellations renowned for their vins doux naturels: Rivesaltes, Banyuls Collioure and Maury.

Discover the Roussillon estates: Mas Amiel, Clos des fées, Mas Blanc, Roc des Anges, Rectorie, Vignerons de Maury, Bila Haut, Jau, Mas Becha, le Soula, Tautavel et Gauby
For more information, visit the official Roussillon wines website.