A vineyard near Carcassone creates a heady wine experience
When Lorraine Clarke moved to France in March 2006 she was in search of a better way of life and hoped to realize her dream of setting up a specialist wine tour company for tourists.
Having met up with vineyard owner Jean-Claude to learn about ‘Vendange’.
At a time when the French wine industry was suffering a downturn Lorraine suggested to Jean-Claude that they try to turn their loss-making vineyard into something much more – a place where people can enjoy, taste and holiday mongst the vineyards. This summer sees the culminations of the couple’s efforts and the opening of The Wine Experience
The wine attraction is situated in the Southern French countryside close to Carcassonne, including villa accommodation for wine lovers who really enjoy delights of the vineyard and the production of wine.
In twelve months the couple have converted the ‘Cave’ previously used for making the wine into a ‘world of wine’ museum and shop. The old stables have been converted into a wine bar where everybody can enjoy the fruity, smooth and well balanced wines produced by the vineyard, and an additional swimming pool has been built for guests. In addition, a small Merlot vineyard has now been converted to a maze and there is a petting zoo for the children.
Those looking for the perfect wine holiday will enjoy a stay at the vineyard’s selection of 2 bedroom gites overlooking the ripening vines and the pool, or the 4 bedroom villa with its own private pool.
All accommodation has been redecorated for the 2008 season. Prices are from £275 – £1500 per week.
This year also sees the introduction of The Wine Experience’s ‘adopt a vine’ scheme. For £25 you can adopt your own row of 25 vines of grapes situated at the vineyard from a choice of Merlot, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc or Cabernet.
You can watch them grow during the spring and summer, bring your friends and family to see your vines and meet the team. When it’s time to harvest the grapes from mid August to October you can even help pick them. And when the wine is finally ready you can drink your own wine at the vineyard or just stop by to pick up your very own stock.
Whether you plan to holiday at The Wine Experience or enjoy the pleasures of adopting your own vine, either way you’ll be sure to raise your glasses in good cheer and enjoy the wines of this wonderful part of France.
For further information visit www.thewineexperience.co.uk
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