Faugères, the Elegance of Languedoc

ONE TERROIR, ONE APPELLATION

The Faugères AOC was created in 1982 for red and white wines. It was in 2005 that the white wines, a more confidential production, became an AOC recognised by the INAO (Institut National des Appellations d'Origine). This includes 7 communes, 57 wineries and one cooperative for a total of 150 producers.

Hot and dry summers, strong gusts of tramontana and sea winds blowing over these wild landscapes, one recognises the characteristics of the Mediterranean climate.

In total, there are 1943 hectares planted on schist soils. These yellow, grey, ochre and orange schists represent one of the oldest soils in the world and the only homogeneous terroir in the Languedoc. Originally at the bottom of the sea, clays and sands have accumulated over millions of years. Compressed and subjected to extreme temperatures, these sediments became shales and split into thin layers. Raised by the mountainous formations of the Alps and the Pyrenees to give this balcony overlooking the Biterrois plain, these soils are deep and free draining and today make the particularity of the Faugères appellation.

VINEYARD THAT COMES IN THREE COLOURS

These sandstone shales, resulting from the compression of clays in the primary era, give a natural acidity to the fine and elegant wines.

Produced from 85% Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Mourvèdre and Cinsault grapes, the red wines are full-bodied and powerful on the palate, with long and spicy finish. A subtle balance of fine and silky tannins that evoke a light perfume of the garrigue.

In rosé, the wines offer delicious fruity notes. The same grape varieties are used as for red wine.

In white wine, Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne and Vermentino (also known as Rolle) are used in the blend to express the minerality of the schist. A minerality that blends with the sweetness of the aromas of almond and ripe apricot.

A recent appellation, the Faugères wines are adapted to the most demanding palates. The reputation of Faugères wines is also enhanced by the winemakers' commitment to the environment. 45% of the estates are committed to Organic Agriculture and Biodynamics for 30% of the surface area, as is the case with Château des Estanilles.