Corbières, located in Languedoc, is a picturesque wine region with a rich terroir; however, it has struggled to shed its perception as a producer of inexpensive, sun-soaked wines. Maxime Magnon has emerged as a leading figure in this area, working diligently to demonstrate the potential of this appellation.
Originally from Burgundy, Magnon has been operating in Villeneuve-les-Corbières since 2002. His impressive background includes stints with notable winemakers like Jean Foillard in Morgon, Thierry Allemand in the Northern Rhône, and Thierry Valette in Burgundy. His journey south was guided by the mentorship of Didier Barral, renowned for his work in Faugères.
Magnon manages 11 hectares of old vines in Haut Corbières, cultivating a diverse array of soils such as schist, decomposed granite, and limestone. His farming practices are biodynamic and include animal assistance. In the winery, he employs natural methods, utilizing whole clusters and semi-carbonic maceration at low temperatures, with minimal sulfites added during bottling.
The resulting wines encapsulate a remarkable freshness and clarity that stand in contrast to the more powerful styles traditionally found in the region.
The Wines
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Maxime Magnon Corbières Blanc Le Bégou 2021: This wine is a blend of Grenache Gris, Grenache Blanc, and Carignan Gris. It features beautiful citrus aromas and is bright and mineral on the palate, with citrus fruit complemented by wax and wet stone notes. A pure and intense expression, rated 94/100.
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Maxime Magnon Corbières Campagnès 2019: Made from 100-year-old Carignan grown on clay and limestone soils, this wine exhibits fine, fresh, and linear qualities with red cherry and raspberry fruit. Its stony presence and nearly perfect balance garner a rating of 94/100.
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Maxime Magnon Corbières Rozeta 2021: This vintage, composed of Carignan, Grenache, and Cinsault from schist and limestone, showcases vivid raspberry fruit with a lovely waxy texture. It is fine and expressive, supported by good structure, and is rated 95/100.
This development in Corbières illustrates a promising pathway for local growers, emphasizing the importance of finesse and articulateness in winemaking.