Let's talk about Limoux
Sparkling wine from Languedoc in Southern France is probably not what pops into your mind first thing. Champagne, Cava, and Prosecco are usually what people gravitate towards, but the bubbles from Limoux are not to be overlooked. The first sparkling wines produced here were made no later than 1531. That’s more than 100 years before Champagne bubbles!
Grapes: Mauzac, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir
Here’s a little breakdown about what’s happening in the effervescent world of Languedoc:
-3 differnet AOC styles of bubbles all from Limoux. What does it all mean?
-Blanquette meaning “small wine” in the local Occitan Language
-Must be made from at least 90% Mauzac. The local Varietal
-Notes of Apples, Honey, Fresh cut grass, Flowers.
2. Crémant de Limoux
-Made in the traditional Champagne Method (Méthod Champenoise)
-Mostly composed of Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc. Sometimes with a touch of Mauzac and Pinot Noir
-Aged at least one year before disgorgement
3. Blanquette Méthod Ancestrale
-The original style invented by local monks in 1531
-Non-disgorged, so looks kinda cloudy because a bit of the sediment still remains
-Typically a bit sweet with stone fruit (peaches, apricots) notes.
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