Carmarans Maximus 2022

Aveyron is a unique region where vineyards grow in hard, stony soils alongside forests, creating a tranquil environment. Historically, Aveyron thrived with a mining industry and had over 2000 hectares of vineyards. However, the collapse of the mining sector and the devastation caused by Phylloxera led many, including Nicolas's grandfather, to abandon their land and move to Paris.

His family's history influences Nicolas's path into winemaking. His grandfather left Aveyron for Paris to work in a bistro. Years later, Nicolas also moved to Paris, where he spent many years in the Parisian trade, running Café de la Nouvelle Mairie. This experience in gastronomy shaped his palate and understanding of wine.

In 2000, Nicolas returned to Aveyron to make his wines on a small plot of 0.3 hectares. Initially, he divided his time between Paris and Aveyron. In 2007, he committed to the project full-time by purchasing his vineyard, Le Mauvais Temps.

The Aveyron wine region, located in the Southwest of France, is a historically significant area for viticulture. It is characterized by its rugged terrain and clay-limestone soils. Vineyards are typically found alongside forests, contributing to a distinct terroir that shapes the region's wines.

Historically, Aveyron was a thriving wine-producing region, with over 2,000 hectares of vineyards at its peak. The region also had a strong mining industry. However, the collapse of the mining sector and the Phylloxera epidemic severely impacted viticulture in the area. Many inhabitants, including those from wine-growing families, left for cities like Paris in search of better opportunities.

The primary grape varieties grown in Aveyron include Fer Servadou, locally known as Mansois, which produces wines with a characteristic ruby color and notes of raspberry. Other important varieties are Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Gamay for reds, Chenin Blanc, and Mauzac for whites. The wines from Aveyron often exhibit a balance of finesse, with notable length and sometimes a slightly smoky finish.

Aveyron's wine production is concentrated in a few key appellations. Marcillac is the most prominent, known for its red wines, made primarily from Fer Servadou. This appellation received AOC status in 1990, recognizing the quality and distinctiveness of its wines. Other appellations include Entraygues-Le Fel and Estaing, which produce wines from a mix of local and classic French grape varieties.

The climate in Aveyron is influenced by its geographical location, which provides a mix of Mediterranean and continental elements. This results in hot summers and cold winters, with significant temperature variations that benefit grape ripening and contribute to the complexity of the wines.