PRODUCER: J. Laurens
REGION: Limoux, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
WINEMAKERS: Henri Albus
In Limoux, big co-operatives like Sieur d’Arques still produce around 80% of the area's wine. It's tough finding smaller, more interesting, standout producers, especially those focused on sparkling wines. That's where Domaine J Laurens comes in. Led by Jacques Calvel, this domaine continues the work started by Champagne enthusiast Michel Dervin in the 1980s. Their star wine, 'Les Graimenous,' has even caught the attention of top wine critics, including Jancis Robinson.
WINERY HISTORY
While most wine aficionados abide by the common refrain that Dom Perignon invented sparkling wine amongst the rolling hills of Champagne, the natives of Limoux tell a markedly different story. In their version of the tale, Dom Perignon travelled to Limoux to learn the art from the monks of Abbey de Saint Hilaire. History, as it so often does, would repeat itself when – in the early 1980s - another Champenois would make the trek south to Limoux to master the style. This was Michel Dervin, who moved to Limoux with the mission of making Crémant and Blanquette de Limoux that would rival the top wines of his birthplace. Slowly developed over the subsequent decades, the estate grew to over 40ha before a 2002 purchase by Limoux native Jacques Calvel.
VITICULTURE & WINEMAKING
Situated a stone's throw from the medieval town of Carcassonne, the estate is sheltered by two mountain ranges. This unique topography gifts the vineyard cooler nights, leading to wines with pronounced freshness and acidity—distinctive characteristics of the Limoux appellation. Since Calvel’s takeover the mission of the domaine has remained much the same, with a focus being placed on sustainable farming and traditional methods. To respect the Limoux AOC rules, rigorous standards are maintained by the J. Laurens team. Limited yields of 50hl per ha, hand harvesting, and extended aging sur lie all ensure the quality and site-driven personality of the wines.
Winemaking at the estate has been run by Henri Albrus since 2000, who trained under Dervin before taking over as head winemaker a few years later. A master of Limoux, Albrus imbibes each vintage with the distinct, characteristic personality of these alluring wines. The ‘Graimenous’ is a blend of 60% Chardonnay, 30% Chenin Blanc, 5% Mauzac and 5% Pinot Noir, lauded by critics including the ‘Guide Hachette’ in France, which has bestowed its highest honour on ‘Graimenous’ several years running. Named for the local herbs that grow in the vineyards of Autan, the Crémant displays a stirring sense of place. Fresh and acidic, the surrounding mountain ranges protect and preserve the airy lightness of this wine compared to those regions closer to the coast.
The quality of J. Laurens' Crémant is undeniable, especially considering its affordable price. Produced using the exacting standards of traditional Champagne methods and stemming from the domaine's finest vine plots, it rivals many upscale Champagnes. This sparkling wine, bursting with zesty citrus, honeyed notes, and a subtle apple touch, is perfect from the moment it's released. It's our go-to choice for celebrations, special dinners, or simply elevating a casual evening with friends.
