2022 Anne de Joyeuse Very Limoux Rouge

the Anne de Joyeuse winery

The Anne de Joyeuse winery is a leading cooperative in Limoux, founded in 1929 and named after the famous knight and confidante of King Henry III, Anne de Joyeuse. Today, the estate comprises over 350 winegrowers who work together to achieve sustainable quality. This collaboration is based on respect for nature and terroir, with a strong focus on biodiversity and environmentally friendly viticulture. All of this is brought together in the "Protect Planet" program, which manages the vineyards sustainably to preserve the riches of the Aude Valley.

Anne de Joyeuse's wines are known for their freshness, balance, and ability to express Limoux's unique microclimate. The combination of Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Pyrenean influences produces wines with depth, structure, and elegance – qualities perfectly expressed in the Very Limoux Rouge.

the Limoux region and its terroir

The Limoux appellation is located in the south of France, in the Aude region, between Carcassonne and the foothills of the Pyrenees. This region is known for its varied climate: in the west, Atlantic influences dominate, bringing coolness and refinement, while in the east, the Mediterranean climate brings more strength and ripeness. The higher southern parts of the valley benefit from fresh mountain air, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and preserve their aromatic potential.

Anne de Joyeuse's vineyards are planted on clay and limestone soils interspersed with alluvial terraces. This mosaic of terroirs gives the wine its layered character and complexity. The combination of various microclimates makes Limoux one of the most interesting wine regions in the South of France, producing both crisp white wines and robust red blends.

grape varieties and composition of the wine

The Very Limoux Rouge 2022 is a blend of Merlot, Syrah, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These grape varieties are harvested entirely by hand. The winemakers select each grape variety for ripeness and aromatic intensity, ensuring that each component contributes to the final harmony of the blend.

Merlot adds roundness and softness, Syrah brings spice and dark fruit aromas, Malbec adds color and structure, while Cabernet Sauvignon provides freshness and length. Together, they create a perfectly balanced wine that reflects the character of Limoux: full-bodied, elegant, and refined.

vinification and maturation

Each grape variety is vinified separately to preserve its optimal character. Syrah and Malbec undergo cold maceration before fermentation to enhance their fruity expression. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, on the other hand, undergo a long maceration of approximately 30 days to develop additional structure and depth. Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature to preserve the aromatic profile.

After fermentation, the wine is aged for eight months in conical wooden barrels. This aging method promotes gentle micro-oxidation and contributes to the wine's round, velvety texture. Then comes the blending, in which the various cuvées are carefully combined to create a single, balanced, expressive wine.

color, smell and taste profile

The 2022 Very Limoux Rouge has a bright ruby-red color with vibrant reflections. The nose opens with aromas of cherry, cassis, and ripe raspberry. With aeration, notes of bay leaf, cocoa, and a hint of spice develop. The aroma is inviting and clean, with a beautiful balance of fruit and spice.

The palate is smooth and elegant, with a core of red fruit and a silky tannin structure. The wine displays a refined balance between ripeness and freshness, typical of Limoux. The finish reveals soft notes of vanilla and a light spice, supported by a fresh mineral note. The wine retains its elegance and digestibility, making it an excellent pairing with both simple and refined dishes.

This wine is best served at room temperature and can be decanted for an hour to allow its aromas to fully develop.

success and character of Very Limoux Rouge

The name "Very Limoux" refers to the unique character of this wine: a pure expression of the terroir. The combination of various climatic influences makes this cuvée rich, fresh, and modern at the same time. The wine demonstrates that Limoux is known not only for sparkling wines but also for powerful red blends with finesse. With the Very Limoux Rouge, Anne de Joyeuse has created a wine that is accessible to the consumer and remains appealing to the connoisseur.

The 2022 edition is a particularly successful vintage, focusing on both fruit and structure. Thanks to the subtle oak aging, the wine remains vibrant and fresh, with a beautiful balance between power and elegance. This makes the wine suitable not only for immediate consumption but also for several years of bottle aging.

Would you like to order Anne de Joyeuse wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pickup" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

wine and food pairings

The 2022 Anne de Joyeuse Very Limoux Rouge is versatile at the table. Its smooth character and refined spiciness make it suitable for a variety of dishes. Here are some ideal pairings:

• Grilled entrecote with rosemary and garlic – the juiciness of the meat enhances the fruity notes of the wine.
• Coq au vin – the classic French red wine stew is a perfect match for the spicy, round texture.
• Pasta with truffle and mushrooms – the earthy notes of the truffle are beautifully supported by the soft tannins.
• Roasted duck breast with fig compote – the sweet and sour character of the figs harmonizes beautifully with the ripe fruit of the wine.
• Ripe Brie or Saint-Marcellin – the creamy texture of the cheese softens the tannins and accentuates the fruitiness.
• Red fruit gaspacho with almond biscuits – a surprising finish where the fresh notes of the wine complement the fruit.