Terroir
The Pinada forms the appellation’s centrepiece
The vineyards of Cru Boutenac are located around the Pinada hill range, ringed by three rivers – the Aussou, the Nielle and the Orbieu. Vines are nestled amidst its rolling hills, at an elevation of 120 metres above sea level. The Pinada epitomises the wine region’s defining features: on the one hand the powerful minerality, sunshine and prevailing north-westerly wind, the Cers; on the other, the gentle hillside slopes, the sea breezes and garrigue perfumes.
The influence of the Mediterranean
There are subtle differences in climate, depending on location and aspect: north-west, south-east and south. The Cers wind and damp breezes rising off the sea have a moderating effect on the hills. The climate is therefore typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers. Rainfall is scarce and unpredictable. Winters can be mild, and vines share the countryside with traditional Mediterranean vegetation.
Légende
AOP Boutenac
AOP Corbières
Influence climatique
Pebble-strewn soils
Formed primarily of clay-limestone molasse and sandstone, the soils are felicitous for vine growing – they are neither too rich nor too poor. Here, vines skilfully show restraint yet do not suffer, thus yielding rich, concentrated grapes. The land is gifted with substantial mineralogical diversity – its depth acts as a magnet for the roots of old-vine Carignan.