Maury

3 km wide by 11 km long: in this jewel of Roussillon, the wines of the Maury appellation are produced, both white and red. The white wines are made from several grape varieties: Grenache Blanc and Gris, Maccadeu, Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, and Muscat of Alexandria. The Maury Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) is located in the Occitanie region, in the Pyrénées-Orientales department. This small production area is distinguished by its red and white wines. It takes its name from the soil in which its different grape varieties grow. Discovering the Maury appellation: The name "Maury" comes from the word Amarioles (or Amariolas), meaning "black earth." This refers to the black schist that makes up the majority of the appellation. The production area is 17 km long and 3 km wide. It is located north of the Catalan Corbières. The vineyards located at the foot of these hills benefit from limestone soil. The appellation extends from the Estagel plain to the outskirts of Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet in the west. It is also 30 km from Perpignan. Spread across small hills nestled in a depression, it is bordered to the north and south by limestone cliffs. It is here that Quéribus, the famous Cathar castle, is located. The first traces of vine cultivation were discovered in the Middle Ages, in the area that now encompasses the AOC. These were farms that were reportedly occupied by the Knights Templar and the Order of the Knights of Saint George. In the 13th century, this area produced great naturally sweet wines. As early as 1872, Maury was recognized as a terroir for naturally sweet beverages. The Estates to Better Understand the Maury Appellation: Maury wines are made from different grape varieties. The reds are primarily made from Grenache Noir. Producers may also add Grenache Blanc (B) and Grenache Gris (G), or even Syrah (N), Carignan (N), and Macabeu (B). The whites are made from Grenache Blanc (B) and Grenache Gris (G), Macabeu (B), or Tourbat (B). Sometimes, these grape varieties are blended with Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains or Muscat of Alexandria Blanc. The Res Fortes Wines estate will teach you a great deal about Maury wines. You will find it in the Agly Valley. There, you can learn about vine cultivation and organic techniques. The owners hope to convert to biodynamic farming soon. At Clos des Vins d'Amour, the Dornier family will introduce you to the creation of the dry and sweet Maury appellations. You'll discover how grape varieties are transformed into beverages with fruity notes and a surprising touch of roundness. And to help you remember the flavors of the products you'll taste, don't forget to buy some Maury wines. You'll find these wines at the estates you visit. What you should know about Maury wines: With age, the white wines of this appellation take on an amber hue. The reds, on the other hand, have varying colors. Some are ruby ​​in their youth. Others display brick-red shades tending towards mahogany, and rare vintages have an orange tint with green highlights. Young Maury wines have intense aromas reminiscent of Morello cherry, blackberry, and red berries. Some begin by developing aromas of prunes and candied fruit. Later, they release scents of dried fruit, spices, coffee, or even leather. After your purchase of Maury wines, you'll be surprised by the tasting experience. Shortly after bottling, these wines are full-bodied and warming. You'll feel like you're biting into a piece of fruit. For some, you'll notice complex flavors. Indeed, notes of ripe fruit and prune mingle with hints of dried fruit, spices, or coffee. This is the case with aged wines. On the palate, you'll appreciate the richness of these wines. The sweetness enhances their roundness and freshness. And their finish is remarkably long. As for food and wine pairings, the whites go perfectly with Roquefort cheese or a candied apricot tart. The red wines are perfect to enjoy with grilled meats or fish.