Les Abrigans Djur Red Blend 2022

Les Abrigans represents a passionate natural wine project founded in 2016 by Laura Lees and Arthur Joly in Villeneuve-les-Corbières, Languedoc. The young winemaking couple embarked on the challenging mission of reviving abandoned vineyards on schist hillsides in the Corbières region. Their dedication transformed neglected plots into a thriving 10-hectare estate producing exceptional natural wines.

The vineyard features diverse grape varieties including Syrah, Grenache Noir, Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache Blanc, Macabeu, Muscat d'Alexandrie, Muscat Petit Grains, and Grenache Gris. These varieties grow on unique schist terroir that provides excellent drainage and imparts distinctive mineral characteristics to the wines. The estate focuses on old vines, some over 35 years old, which contribute concentration and complexity.

Laura and Arthur practice biodynamic viticulture without chemical interventions. Their farming methods include manual soil work, organic compost application, animal traction on old parcels, and winter grazing by donkeys and Shetland ponies. They apply minimal treatments, typically using only sulfur and occasionally copper, always applied by hand to target specific areas.

The winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention techniques. Grapes undergo hand harvesting, spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts, and aging in various vessels including concrete tanks and neutral oak barrels. The wines receive no fining, no filtration, and no added sulfites in most cuvées. This approach produces wines with authentic terroir expression and vibrant fruit character.

Les Abrigans produces several cuvées including Sir Abrigans, Le Courage des Oiseaux, Djur, La Jajathèque, and various white and orange wines. Each wine reflects the couple's commitment to natural winemaking and showcases the unique characteristics of Corbières terroir.

Corbières represents one of France's largest and most diverse wine appellations, covering approximately 13,000 hectares across the rugged landscapes of Languedoc-Roussillon in southern France. Located between Narbonne and Perpignan, this ancient winemaking region extends from the Mediterranean coast inland to the foothills of the Pyrenees. The appellation received AOC status in 1985, recognizing its distinctive terroir and quality potential.

The region's topography varies dramatically from coastal plains to mountainous terrain reaching 400 meters elevation. Corbières encompasses eleven distinct terroir zones, each characterized by different soil compositions and microclimates. The dominant soil types include schist, limestone, sandstone, clay, and marl, creating diverse growing conditions that influence wine character. The Mediterranean climate provides hot, dry summers and mild winters, with the Tramontane wind helping to regulate humidity and prevent disease pressure.

Corbières produces primarily red wines, which must comprise at least 40% of four principal grape varieties: Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. Carignan historically dominated plantings but regulations now limit it to maximum 50% of blends, encouraging quality-focused viticulture. Supporting varieties include Cinsault, Terret Noir, and Picpoul Noir. White wines account for a small percentage of production, made from Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Macabeu, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Vermentino.

Traditional winemaking emphasized rustic, high-alcohol wines, but modern producers focus on expressing terroir through careful vineyard management and precise vinification. Many estates practice organic or biodynamic farming, recognizing the region's natural advantages for sustainable viticulture. The diverse terroirs produce wines ranging from light, early-drinking styles to structured, age-worthy expressions.

Corbières faces challenges from climate change, requiring adaptation strategies including higher altitude plantings and drought-resistant rootstocks. The region benefits from significant investment in modern winemaking facilities and renewed focus on indigenous varieties. Young winemakers bring innovation while respecting traditional practices, creating wines that balance power with elegance.

The appellation produces approximately 400,000 hectoliters annually, with wines offering excellent value compared to other French regions. Corbières wines pair naturally with Mediterranean cuisine, particularly dishes featuring herbs, olives, and grilled meats that reflect the local gastronomic culture.