Mauzac
(Mauzac Blanc)
Mauzac is a white wine grape variety primarily grown in the southwestern regions of France, particularly in the Gaillac and Limoux appellations. This grape is known for its versatility and is used to produce a range of wine styles, including sparkling wines, dry whites, and sweet wines.
In Gaillac, Mauzac is one of the traditional grape varieties and is often blended with other local varieties such as Loin de l'Oeil and Muscadelle to create aromatic and flavorful white wines. Mauzac wines from this region typically exhibit fresh, fruity flavors with notes of green apple, pear, and sometimes a distinctive aroma of dried herbs or hay.
These wines can be crisp and refreshing, making them suitable for various food pairings. One of the most famous uses of Mauzac is in the production of sparkling wines from the Limoux region, particularly Blanquette de Limoux. Blanquette de Limoux is one of the oldest sparkling wines in the world, predating Champagne, and is made predominantly from Mauzac, with Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc sometimes included in the blend. Read more
The traditional method used for making Blanquette de Limoux involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, which produces a fine mousse and complex flavors. Mauzac lends a distinctive green apple and floral character to these sparkling wines, which are known for their elegance and finesse.
In addition to sparkling wines, Mauzac is also used to produce sweet wines in Gaillac, often from grapes that have been affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) or late-harvested. These sweet wines are rich and luscious, with flavors of honey, dried fruits, and apricot, balanced by the grape's natural acidity.
