In 2021, Maxime was interested to find some land near where he lives but close to the sea; very eager to work new land, he decided to farm four hectares in the commune of Peyriac de Mer. This terroir, composed mainly of white marl and sandstone, overlooking sea lakes and close to the Mediterranean coast, gave birth to two new cuvées: L'Estrade and St Jacques. L'Estrade is a blend of half Grenache Blanc (for body) and half Macabeu (for freshness and minerality). The result is an incredibly fresh and delicious wine! The nose is fine, fresh and attractive, with hints of pear and almond blossom. The palate is zesty from the outset, then develops into a cool, pulpy texture with flavours of green apple and minerally lemon driving the finish. The first vintage was 2022 and I have had to wait until now to get some, don't miss it!

Up in the wild, scrubby landscape of the Corbières is one of the most talented young vignerons in France; shy, modest and honest he rents 10 hectares of vines in and around Villeneuve des Corbières at about 300m above sea level and nestled well into the mountains.

He has Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah planted in the schist and limestone soils; some of the vines are more than a hundred years old! For white wine he has Grenache Gris and Grenache Blanc which he blends to produce a single cuvee each year.

Following the fermentation the wines are all élevaged in cement tanks and old barrels before being bottled without fining or filtration.
Maxime learned his winemaking from one of the best in France; Jean Foillard from the Beaujolais. You can see the influence in his wine too. Delicious, velvety and juicy fresh they burst with beautiful perfume and life  - these brilliant wines could win over the most jaded palates and will bring a smile to even the most obstinately weary drinker. 

• Tweet