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The estate
In 1982, two self-taught winegrowers, Marthe and François Lemarié, decided to settle in the south of France, on the Boutenac terroir, a “little corner of paradise” named “Les Aiguillous” in honor of the Occitan name of the small stream that borders the property’s vineyards.
Passionate about good wine and good local produce, the two winemakers decided to dedicate their lives to the production of a joyful, bon vivant wine, whose vinification is as rigorous as it is artistic. Their aim is to “bottle happiness”.
It’s in the heart of the Corbières that Château Aiguilloux will evolve, with respect for the vines, the fruit and the terroir as its essential principles. The result is the production of typical, full-bodied, elegant wines that have been winning awards ever since the second harvest.
The terroir
The Châteaux Aiguilloux estate is located in the heart of the Corbières, covering 37 hectares of vines surrounded by 95 hectares of woods and garrigue. The vineyard, bordered by limestone-crested hills, surrounds the century-old house, cellar and winery in a sort of rolling cirque.
The terroir’s microclimate is characterized by alternating summer heat moderated by a north-westerly wind (the Cers), cool autumn weather and sparing winter rainfall. The result is controlled yields, beautifully ripe fruit and a berry with concentrated aromas.
Aware of the importance of preserving their terroir, the winemakers at the head of the estate do their utmost to maintain the biological balance of their vineyards.
The wines
Château Aiguilloux wines are powerful, fine and elegant wines for laying down.
Cuvée Rosé is a blend of Cinsault and Syrah grapes. Fresh pink in color, with redcurrant highlights. The nose is fine, reminiscent of summer berries. Elegant and fruity, this wine is an indispensable friend of summer aperitifs, and noble fish such as roasted turbot or scallops au gratin with Japanese seaweed.
Cuvée Aventure, a blend of Carignan, Grenache Noir, Syrah and Mourvèdre, is a tannic, fruity wine. As refined as it is harmonious, it releases intense aromas of red fruit. Ideal with farmhouse poultry casseroles or duck breast, it also goes well with exotic, spicy dishes.
The Trois Seigneurs cuvée is a trio of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah. Its deep, dark garnet-red color reveals an explosive nose of black fruits. On the palate, a long, woody finish is complemented by smooth tannins. The ideal wine to accompany a rib of Aubrac beef, free-range poultry or powerful chocolate desserts.
The “Anne-Georges” cuvée is a blend of Carignan and Syrah. Aged in barrels, this wine gives off notes of spices and ripe black berries. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and long, with woody notes and a peppery finish reminiscent of the garrigues. Balanced and elegant, this wine sublimates tasty dishes such as venison or hare à la royale.
Photo by Château Aiguilloux
