Grapes are sourced from the wild, rugged landscape of Pays Cathare that surrounds the towns of Carcassonne and Limoux with its argilo–calcaire soils. Home to the AOPs of Languedoc and Limoux, the vineyards do not stop with the AOP geographical limits and it is from these outskirts that we have sourced some exceptionally interesting wines.One of the great advantages of the region is that it benefits from enviable geographic and climatic conditions, the warm Mediterranean sunshine is tempered by the altitude and the cooler nights so characteristic of the foothills of the Pyrenees. These are ideal conditions, allowing for the longer, slower ripening of the grapes and providing a superb base for the elaboration of wines that offer intensity, complexity and finesse.The traditional ‘noble’ grape varieties of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have a natural affinity here in the Haute Vallée de l’Aude. Made from mostly hand-picked grapes, this wine has been vinified in large, old oak barrels which impart texture and intensity. Bright ruby red, with upfront aromas of freshly-picked raspberries and an underlying savoury leesiness. Fleshy red fruits continue to the palate and are joined by fine tannins and juicy acidity - the foundations of a serious Pinot Noir.