Domaine La Colombette
“Domaine of the Dove” is 10km north of Béziers, on the sandy slopes above the river Libron – from which this small appellation of 10 growers gets its name. It is run by father and son team François and Vincent Pugibet. François (who looks like the professor in the TinTin books) was a Languedoc pioneer, experimenting with new varieties and improving techniques, while the rest slumbered in mediocrity. The Pugibets are becoming world-renowned for their Chardonnay. They have planted burgundian clones on their tiny estate between the Mediterranean and the rivers Orb and Libron. The water influences the temperatures during the ripening season and results in fully ripe grapes with fresh acidity. Lledoner Pelut is a fascinating variety, related to Grenache, which produces a rich smooth wine akin to Chateauneuf du Pape.