Jean-Claude Mas adds new cremant to his portfolio

By Arabella Mileham

Published: 08 April, 2015

Domaines Paul Mas is extending its portfolio of sparkling French wines from the Languedoc.

The winery is adding a Grande Réserve Crémant de Limoux 2012, to its range of Prima Perla sparkling wines. The new cremant is a blend of Mauzac, Pinot Noir and Chenin Blanc, from vineyards in the Chateau Martinolles estate, which was acquired by the Domaines' portfolio in 2011. It will be launched officially at the London Wine Fair in May.

The wine was created using the traditional Champenois method and partly fermented in French oak before being bottle aged for 24 months. Only 20,000 bottles have been produced.

Jean-Claude Mas said wines from Limoux were gaining a "formidable" reputation as one of the best sparkling wine regions outside Champagne and was targeting the brand at young professionals, and is likely to be sold through independent retailers.

"We wanted to offer the finesse of a Grand Cru but with a richer, softer texture and mouth feel," he said, adding that the low yields of 2012 gave concentration and freshness.

"The aim is to show British consumers that great bubbly does not begin and end with Champagne or Prosecco; I am convinced that the Languedoc is capable of producing sparkling wines that rival the best in the world, stylistically or from a value for money stand-point," he said.

"I have long believed that the market "sweet spot" of a retail price of £15-18 for a premium sparkling wine is yet to be properly satisfied."