Lauriga, located in Thuir within the Les Aspres terroir of Roussillon, has a rich history and is experiencing a revitalization under the ownership of Jean-Claude Mas since July 2016. Once a dormant estate, Lauriga has now leaned towards modernizing its wine production, shifting focus primarily towards white wines while still producing Vin Doux Naturels, which now constitutes around 10-15% of their output. The dry wines produced at Lauriga comprise 60% red, 30% white, and 10% rosé, though the latter has become less favored due to demand for fresh vintages.
Significant redevelopment has taken place at the estate, including luxury accommodations to enhance its wine tourism appeal. The vineyard spans 53 hectares, with an annual production reaching up to 150,000 bottles under normal circumstances; however, the recent vintage saw reduced yields of 18 hl/ha, prompting Mas to aim for increases to between 30-35 hl/ha for sustainability.
Mas admits to the high costs associated with viticulture in the region, which can be as much as €10,000 per hectare. He emphasizes the importance of managing vine health and soil for sustainable production, noting that when he acquired the property, the vineyards suffered from diseases, resulting in weak vines.
To counteract the Mediterranean climate’s potential drawbacks, irrigation has been introduced to cover 33 out of the 53 hectares. The objective is to provide controlled water supply during crucial months to mitigate hydric stress. Mas is also optimistic about white grape varietals and is currently working on achieving a balanced production of both red and white wines.
Lauriga produces both Côtes Catalanes and AOP wines, distributing through several smaller outlets in the UK.
THE WINES
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Domaine Lauriga La Figuera 2024 Côtes Catalanes
14.5% alcohol. An intriguing blend of Macabeu, Grenache Blanc, Muscat, Grenache Gris, and Viognier that displays vibrant pear, peach, and melon flavors, supported by a fine texture. Rated 90/100. -
Château Lauriga Soleil Blanc 2022 Côtes du Roussillon
14.5% alcohol. A blend primarily of Grenache Blanc aged partially in barrels, showing spicy notes alongside bold citrus and pear fruit. Rated 90/100. -
Domaine Lauriga Le Gris Rosé 2024 Côtes Catalanes (tank sample)
A fresh and textured Grenache Gris with savory hints anchored by a finish of slight salinity. Rated 91/100. -
Château Lauriga Rosé 2024 Côtes du Roussillon
Displays a meaty edge to its sweet pear and cherry fruit, achieving a nuanced complexity. Rated 92/100. -
Domaine Lauriga Racines 2023 Côtes Catalanes
14.5% alcohol. This Carignan showcases juicy, sweet cherries and plums, making it very drinkable. Rated 90/100. -
Château Lauriga Le Cadet 2023 Côtes de Roussillon
13.5% alcohol. A Syrah-dominant blend with rich fruit and a grippy structure, demonstrating impressive depth. Rated 91/100. -
Château Lauriga Réserve Cuvée Bastien 2022 Côtes de Roussillon
14.5% alcohol. Offers a balanced richness with sweet cherry and berry fruits, framed by spicy oak. Rated 91/100. -
Château Lauriga Grande Réserve Cuvée Jean 2020 Côtes de Roussillon
15% alcohol. This blend has depth, harmony, and attractive spicy notes, drinking very well now. Rated 94/100. -
Château Lauriga Muscat de Rivesaltes 2021
15.5% alcohol. A fortified wine with expressive fruit qualities complemented by almond and mint. Rated 93/100. -
Château Lauriga Grenat de Rivesaltes 2022
17% alcohol. Displays power with sweet fruit and a refreshing quality on the finish. Rated 93/100.
Lauriga’s focus on revitalizing both its vineyard and its wine offerings showcases an exciting evolution in this historic Roussillon estate, as they aim for excellence in both white and red varietals.
For more information, visit Lauriga’s website.