THE LOCAL AREA
Alimentation et boissons
There is no shortage of food and fantastic cuisine in the Languedoc, from local village bistrots and abundant food markets to fine dining restaurants and acres of vineyards. Below is a list of markets, vineyards and a short list of restaurants we return to again and again.
Markets
Carcassonne's Saturday market is fresh vegetables and local produce at its most authentic. Mirepoix holds a Monday market in its medieval square, surrounded by bustling cafés and bars.
Our favourite is the covered market at Narbonne, open every morning, for cheeses, jams, honey, olive oil and fresh seafood. In Carcassonne itself, La Ferme is the shop to know for good local produce.
Vineyards and wine
With its 700 000 acres of vineyards, the Languedoc is the largest wine-producing region in France, and it was the first French region to be introduced to wine-making by the Romans. The Corbières area that surrounds the property is home to some outstandingly good-value quality wines, many of which are now organically produced by a new generation of young winemakers.
This is red wine country, although interesting whites and rosés are now also beginning to emerge, and the region is also home to the first sparkling wines – the Blanquette and Crémant de Limoux, which are precursors to Champagne. Slightly further afield, the Minervoix region is also fantastic for reds and sweet whites.
Our neighbours at Domaine Calmel & Joseph offer tastings, and Nick McKay, another neighbour, can come to the Domaine for a private tasting in French or English.
Our Favourite Restaurants
Brasserie à 4 Temps
A family favourite, serving local produce cooked well and at a reasonable price. In summer, sit outside under umbrellas.
Comte Roger
A traditional French cooking inside the citadel. The cassoulet is excellent, and the duck is a must-try.
Restaurant du Parc
Owned by the same chef as Brasserie à 4 temps, this restaurant is at the foot of the citadel, and as been awarded two Michelin stars.
Domaine d'Auriac
Bernard Rigaudis' restaurant has held a Michelin star for 34 years, serving traditional and regional cuisine: meats, game and line-caught fish.
Le Bastion
Worth the 35-minute drive to Lagrasse for the village alone, but the food is another real reason to go.
Domaine d'Auriac: Le Bistrot
The more relaxed option next to the golf course. Great-value traditional French food, and a perfect 19th hole for golfers.
Bourdasso
Close to the Domaine, run by Italian owners whose own buffalo produce the mozzarella. Uncomplicated and delicious.
Hôtel de la Cité: Barbacane
Chefs Jérôme Ryon and Régis Chanel serve dishes with real imagination and flair and have recently reacquired their Michelin star.
From the Journal
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Palaja, Languedoc, France