AOC Blanquette de Limoux

History of the AOC Blanquette de Limoux

The AOC Blanquette de Limoux is considered the oldest sparkling wine in the world. Dating back to the 16th century, well before Champagne, the monks of the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire in the heart of Languedoc discovered the process of secondary fermentation (a process known as the ancestral method). Since then, this region of Languedoc has perfected the art of producing sparkling wines with unparalleled elegance and finesse, using both the ancestral and traditional methods (secondary fermentation in the bottle).

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Blanquette de Limoux

• Climate: Situated at the crossroads of oceanic, Mediterranean, and Pyrenean influences, Limoux enjoys a climate particularly suited to viticulture. Summers are hot and dry, winters are mild, and there is regular rainfall throughout the year.
• Soils: The AOC Blanquette de Limoux vineyard stretches across clay-limestone terraces, an ideal terroir for the production of high-quality sparkling wines.

The Mauzac: Essential Grape of the AOC Blanquette de Limoux

Mauzac is the emblematic grape variety of the AOC Blanquette de Limoux. This native grape, also called "Blanquette," imparts characteristic notes of apples and pears to the wine and represents at least 90% of the blend. Other grape varieties like Chardonnay and Chenin can complement the blend, adding complexity and finesse.

Style of AOC Blanquette de Limoux Wines

Appearance: Bright pale yellow color with fine, persistent bubbles.

Aroma: The bouquet reveals fresh aromas of green apples, pears, citrus fruits, and sometimes brioche notes.

Palate: Fresh and elegant, AOC Blanquette de Limoux wines offer a pleasant acidity, creamy mousse, and a delicately fruity finish. Wines made using the ancestral method are light in alcohol (around 6°-7°) and slightly sweet, while those made using the traditional method (or champagne method) can be Brut, demi-sec, or sweet.

Serving Temperature: 6°-8°C

Aging Potential: Best consumed young, although some vintages can improve over 2 to 4 years.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Blanquette de Limoux

Here are some recommendations for the best food pairings with a bottle of white sparkling wine from an AOC Blanquette de Limoux estate or château:

• Starters: Aperitif, cheese gougères, warm goat cheese salad
• Main Courses: Ham crepe, quiche Lorraine
• Desserts: Tarte Tatin, mille-feuille, tarte tropézienne