Limoux, France
Nestled in the heart of the south of France, in the quaint village of 'La Digne d'Aval,' just a stone's throw from the historic city of Carcassonne, lies Domaine J.Laurens. Located less than 5 kilometers from Limoux, this family-owned estate, spanning over 40 hectares since the 1980s, is devoted exclusively to crafting sparkling wines in the prestigious 'AOC' appellations of Blanquette and Cremant de Limoux.
In the 1980s, inspired by the terroir of Limoux, Michel Dervin, an expert from the Champagne region, acquired vineyards to produce the renowned Blanquette de Limoux. In 2002, Jacques Calvel, a Limoux native and wine enthusiast, took the reins. With the expertise of Michel and winemaker Henri Albrus, they restructured the estate, enhancing vineyards and facilities to ensure consistent high-quality production. Today, Domaine J.Laurens boasts a splendid range of Blanquette and Cremant de Limoux, blending tradition with a commitment to quality.
The roots of Limoux's sparkling wine heritage run deep, dating back to 1531 when the first sparkling wine, Blanquette de Limoux, was discovered in the cellars of the Saint Hilaire Abbey. In 1938, Limoux became the first region in Languedoc to receive a controlled label of origin for Blanquette and Blanquette Méthode Ancestrale. This commitment to tradition continues with the Méthode Traditionnelle, where rigorous practices such as hand-harvesting, limited yields, and extended lees aging are adhered to, ensuring the AOC Limoux standards are met.
The story of Domaine J.Laurens is one of passion, heritage, and a dedication to crafting exceptional sparkling wines that echo the centuries-old tradition of the Limoux region. Visitors are invited to experience this commitment firsthand, touring the vineyards, witnessing the meticulous winemaking process, and indulging in the sparkling treasures of this renowned estate.