Most of the world attributes the invention of sparkling wine to the Champagne region and Dom Perignon. The legend, and the possible true story, is much more interesting. According to the natives of Limoux, it was actually created a few miles from the main city. Its existence is already documented in the 16th century. When the great Dom passed through Limoux, he stole the idea. Or so the legend says.
But there is another connection; Throughout the Middle Ages and into the Renaissance, indeed until the French Revolution, it was the monks who did so much to invent and nurture the finer things in life and Limoux sparkling wine is no exception.
Where was Limoux first produced?
You can’t miss the Abbaye de St-Hilaire in the nearby town of St-Hilaire, supposedly the place where in 1531 monks discovered how to make sparkling wine. Apart from the brilliant connection, it is a fascinating place with a sarcophagus in the 13th century cathedral by the Maitre de Cabestany who traveled the region, carving extraordinary distinctive statues. The sarcophagus has a carving that represents the martyrdom of Saint Sernine, patron of Toulouse. He was dragged by a bull to his death and then buried here.
The town of Limoux
No matter who is right about the origins of wine, Limoux is a charming little town with a big heart. It’s home to one of the most popular carnivals in Europe, a two-month divine ode to French food, music and joie de vivre . The enchanting river Aude makes its way through the small town where a sleepy life is centered on the Republic square in the old town. Don’t miss the Tivoli waterfront.
Sit in one of the local cafes, sip a Blanquette and let your worries run from your mind. Visit the Friday market to sample local produce and specialties. Visit the Museum of Automatisms and the unique Piano Museum that tells the story of the evolution of the instrument and has a concert hall for excellent performances open from April to October.
For a little haven of peace, head to the Botanical Park of fragrant flowers in La Bouichère, on the outskirts of the city. Ignore the urban environment; Once inside the garden, busy city life seems a million miles away.
Going for the Blanquette
However, the Blanquette is the real charm. You may prefer it to its more popular Champagne cousin. It has a low-key, dry and smooth personality in keeping with its southern French surroundings. While it is difficult to find in US wine stores, you can purchase it from an online store.
While Blanquette is the area’s not-so-prominent claim to fame, local vintners produce wonderful Chardonnays, Syrahs and ‘Crémant de Limoux,’ a blend of Chardonnay and Chenin grapes.
What to see nearby
Limoux is located in the heart of the dramatic Cathar country of France, just minutes from the medieval walled city of Carcassonne. In summer, when UNESCO-listed Carcassonne is packed with tourists, stay in Limoux and drive to Carcassonne for the day.
This is one of the most beautiful areas in France to drive, as you pass vineyards and drive along roads lined with tall plane trees. Stop at wineries for tastings. Savor cassoulet, a delicious Languedocian stew of white beans and meat.
If all that is too much, head to Alet-les-Bains, south of Limoux for some rest and relaxation.
Where to stay
If you plan to visit, there are a few accommodation options in or near Limoux. For the best atmosphere, splurge on a room at the Hôtel Le Monastère located (surprise, surprise) in a former medieval monastery.
The charming Moderne et Pigeon has a great location and is housed in an 18th century building.
Read guest reviews, compare prices and book the Moderne et Pigeon hotel on TripAdvisor.
Edited by Mary Anne Evans
