Description

Domaine des Lauriers

Lauriers’ vines

Lauriers has long been a favourite of ours, adjacent to the pretty village of Castlenau-de-Guers close to the oyster beds of the Bassin de Thau, and providing benchmark white wines for the shellfish that the area is famous for.  They have recently converted their 45 hectares to Agriculture Raisonnée, which minimises the use of pesticides and concentrates on preserving the environment.

It was great to be able to visit them again this Spring.  Their Viognier is a brilliant expression of this exotic variety.  We were also bowled over by their white – Rolle, which punches way above its weight for quality. 

This family-run vineyard is situated in gently rolling countryside, near the delightful old Roman town of Pézenas, some 15 miles from Montpelier.  The 45 hectare estate was founded in 1969, starting with just a few parcels of land, and the family have gradually purchased more vineyard land, as time has passed.

The vinification of their whites is at low temperature to preserve fruit flavours, and year after year they receive recognition for their efforts in the prestigious Guide Hachette.  They frequently win Gold or Silver Medals at the Paris Wine Fair for their wines.

Marc Cabrol

We have put together a Mixed Half Dozen, consisting of three bottles of each of –

Domaine des Lauriers, Rolle 2024
IGP d’Oc
Marc Cabrol makes some of the best Picpouls but equally enjoyable is this lovely Rolle.
Rolle is a traditional Mediterranean varietal, which was traditionally used to make the aperitif Noilly Prat.  AKA Vermentino  in Italy it flourishes in Sardinia and Tuscany.
Pale lemon in colour there is a mouthwatering nose of nectarines with floral undertones.  On the palate there is concentrated, rich fruit with flavours of apple, apricot and honey, finishing with an aromatic, saline finish.
Perfect with seafood, risottos and fish.  A grape variety to watch, as it is currently excellent quality for the price!

Domaine des Lauriers, Viognier 2024
IGP d’Oc
Marc makes one of our favourite Viogniers, and the 2024 is no exception
There is a gorgeous nose of honeysuckle and apricots.  It has a silky texture with the alluring flavour of apricots. It is rich without being oily and there is an aromatic twist at the finish with a twist of lemon zest acidity.
Beautifully balanced, it is great as an aperitif, even better with Thai or Chinese food.  Try it with cheeses for a real surprise! Available elsewhere for £12.45…