Since 1864, five generations have worked the family vineyards of Domaine Fontanel. The vineyards cover thirty-five hectares of pebbly, schist, clay and limestone slopes in the stunning foothills of the Corbieres massif. Pierre and Marie-Claude Fontaneil practise sustainable viticulture and avoid the use of chemicals as much as possible. When we visited them Pierre was preparing for harvest in his traditional roadside cellar in the centre of Tautavel. Listening to him while we tasted the wines was a real insight into the methods and practices the family had developed over decades.

Their production covers red and white Cotes du Roussillon, Cotes du Roussillon Villages Tautavel and a number of sweet wines including the fabulous Rivesaltes Ambre that we offer. The domaine is very well respected in France and has received many medals, top reviews and a 'coup de coeur' in the Hachette Guide. They are now beginning to receive the international recognition they deserve.

Visit their website: www.domainefontanel.com