Maury, natural sweet wines
Known for its naturally sweet wines of Roussillon, Maury is both one of the oldest and smallest wine appellations in the region. Including Tautavel among its four communes, it boasts a history of inhabited land dating back to prehistoric times. The site of a Roman villa during Antiquity, it was named Amauriola , from which its name derives. Witnesses to the much later medieval period, the towers of the Château de Quéribus dominate the vineyard slopes on the horizon. The massif of grey limestone on which the castle sits marks the border with the Corbières . The light-colored relief that carves through the valley floor contrasts with the first hillsides sculpted from schist. The configuration of this terroir, which encloses the narrow riverbed in a corridor, forces strong winds. The vines thrive here in harsh conditions, swept by the Tramontane wind and bathed in sunshine. In this land dominated by red grape varieties, Grenache reigns supreme. Well-suited to the climate, it grows alongside Carignan, Syrah, and Macabeu. Maury Blanc is also produced here , made from Grenache Gris and Blanc, Muscat of Alexandria, and Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains. The vines, subject to the demands of the terroir, are small and produce concentrated grapes. The naturally sweet wines of Maury , whose profile might remind some of Port, are available, like Rivesaltes , in Garnet , Tuilé , and Ambré versions . The designation " Hors d'Âge " (Very Old) is given when the aging process reaches five years.
Maury, still wines
Having been included in the appellation since 2012, Maury red wines showcase Grenache Noir, which is the dominant grape in the blends. At least one other grape variety is included, selected from Carignan, Syrah, Mourvèdre, or, in a small proportion, Lledoner Pelut. Aging for at least six months is mandatory. Once bottled, the label must bear the designation " Maury Sec " (dry Maury) to distinguish the red wines from the naturally sweet wines produced within the same appellation. Embodying the solar and mineral power of the terroir, they reveal a dense color where complex aromas harmonize with the tannic structure.
Where to find Maury wines?
VICA, the Catalan winegrowers
Mas Camps
Find out more about the appellation
The specifications for the Maury appellation.