Languedoc

This appellation was classified in 1985, and is in the Languedoc wine-growing region in France. The AC Fitou is an enclave within the region. The vineyard area of Corbières totals 14.000 hectares, stretching from Narbonne on the Mediterranean coast inland for 50 kilometres. This is a large region with 87 communes, which is unofficially sub-divided into 11 sub-zones to take account of different conditions. These sub-zones are Boutenac, Durban, Fontfroide, Lagrasse, Lézignan, Montagne d´Alaric, Quéribes, St-Victor, Serviès, Sigean, Termenès and Quéribus. Boutenac was classified as an own sub-appellation in 2005. One can expect others to follow suit. The mix of grape varieties differs slightly from one commune to the next. Red wine and rosé are blends made from 40 to a maximum of 60% Carignan, a minimum of 25 to 35% Grenache, Llladoner Pelut and Syrah, a maximum of 20% Cinsaut, as well as from Mourvèdre, Picpoul, Macabéo, Bourboulenc and Terret. The white wine is made from Bourboulenc, Grenache Blanc and Macabéo (minimum of 50%), as well as Clairette, Muscat Blanc, Picpoul, Terret, Marsanne, Rioussanne and Vermentino. Well-known producers include Château Aguilloux, Château la Baronne, Domaine de Fontsainte, Château de Lastours, Château des Ollieux, Château les Palais, Château la Voulte-Gasparets, Domaine du Vieux Parc and Domaine de Villemajou.