Discover Two Remarkable Wine Regions in One Day
Just twenty minutes from Carcassonne lie two of Southern France's most fascinating yet underrated wine regions.
This private tour combines the elegant still wines of the Malepère with the world-famous sparkling wines of Limoux, offering a journey through landscapes, vineyards and traditions that have shaped the history of French wine for centuries.
Designed for travellers seeking an authentic and personalised experience, the day unfolds at a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of time to meet local winemakers, understand the region's unique terroirs and enjoy exceptional wines in the company of your private wine expert.
Discover the Hidden Gem of the Malepère
Our day begins in the Malepère, one of the Languedoc's smallest and least-known appellations.
Bordering both the Atlantic and Mediterranean climatic influences, the region produces wines with remarkable freshness and elegance. Syrah, Grenache and Merlot create expressive reds and rosés, while Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier flourish alongside them.
You'll visit one of the appellation's leading family-owned wineries, where a private tour takes you through the vineyards, winery and barrel cellar. Along the way, you'll discover how oak ageing, terroir and careful winemaking combine to create wines of remarkable balance and personality.
The visit concludes with a generous tasting of the estate's wines, adapted to your interests and level of wine knowledge.
Lunch in the Heart of Wine Country
Lunch is never simply a break during the day.
It's another opportunity to discover the flavours of Southern France.
Enjoy a relaxed meal in one of our carefully selected local restaurants, where seasonal ingredients and regional wines take centre stage.
For guests choosing our Gourmet option, lunch is served in one of the region's finest country auberges, renowned for its refined interpretation of traditional Languedoc cuisine.
Limoux – The Birthplace of Sparkling Wine
In the afternoon, we travel to Limoux, where Benedictine monks first recorded the production of sparkling wine in 1531—well before Champagne.
Our visit to one of Limoux's leading producers reveals the fascinating history and craftsmanship behind the region's sparkling wines.
You'll discover the traditional method used to produce Crémant de Limoux, learn why Blanquette de Limoux remains one of France's most distinctive sparkling wines, and taste the extraordinary Blanquette Méthode Ancestrale, a naturally sweet sparkling wine unlike any other.
Whether you're already passionate about sparkling wines or discovering them for the first time, this tasting is always one of the highlights of the day.
The Abbey of Saint-Hilaire
The story of Limoux's sparkling wines would not be complete without a visit to the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire.
This peaceful Benedictine abbey is where monks first documented the production of sparkling wine in 1531, making it one of the most important sites in the history of French wine.
As you explore its Romanesque church, elegant cloister and ancient monastery buildings, you'll discover the fascinating story behind one of the world's greatest wine innovations while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere that still defines this remarkable place.
More Than a Wine Tour
This experience is about much more than tasting excellent wines.
It's an opportunity to discover two distinctive appellations, meet passionate producers and explore the rich cultural heritage that has shaped the wines of the Languedoc for centuries.
Combining beautiful landscapes, remarkable history and exceptional wines, this private tour offers one of the most complete introductions to Southern France's wine culture.
Tour Highlights
- Private tour exclusively for your party.
- Discover the Malepère and Limoux appellations.
- Visit two carefully selected boutique wineries.
- Taste still wines, Crémant de Limoux, Blanquette de Limoux and Blanquette Méthode Ancestrale.
- Learn why Limoux is considered the birthplace of sparkling wine.
- Visit the historic Abbey of Saint-Hilaire.
- Relax over a regional lunch.
- Flexible pace with time to personalise the day.
Tour at a Glance
- Departure: Pick-up from your accommodation
- Duration: Full day
- Pick-up: Carcassonne, Narbonne and surrounding areas (other locations available on request)
- Included
✔ Private transportation
✔ Private licensed guide and wine expert
✔ Two winery visits
✔ Wine tastings
✔ Visit to the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire
✔ Lunch - Walking: Easy
- Customisation: As a private experience, the itinerary can be adapted, where possible, to suit your interests, pace and preferences.
