Wine in Cabardes, Languedoc

Chateau de Pennautier ★ 4.4

Cabardes flagship estate at Pennautier just north of Carcassonne, run by the Lorgeril family since 1620, working the Atlantic-meets-Mediterranean Cabardes AOC blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache, Syrah) on the Black Mountain foothills.

Tasting: Cellar tour, gardens visit and tasting at Pennautier; on-site restaurant

Signature wines: Pennautier Classique Rouge, Terroirs d'Altitude, Pennautier Collection Privee

Tip: Terroirs d'Altitude is the prestige Cabardes that shows the Atlantic-Mediterranean blend clearly; the chateau and gardens are open for tour year-round.

Chateau de Pennautier ★ 4.6

Lorgeril family's 1620 Versailles-style Cabardes chateau ten minutes from Carcassonne's Cite, with 24 rooms restored by European decoration houses and AOP Cabardes cellar tours included.

The list: Estate AOP Cabardes Chateau de Pennautier and Maison Lorgeril Languedoc portfolio served at meals; private cellar visit and tasting; estate parc walking trail with vineyard views