The appellation is located in the far west of the French wine region of Languedoc in the Département of Aude in the vicinity of the areas of Limoux (south) and Cabardès (north). The former VDQS area "Côtes de la Malepère" was classified under the new name in 2007. The vineyards cover 500 hectares of vines on clay and limestone soils on gentle slopes of the foothills of the Pyrenees in 39 municipalities. The red and rosé wines are blended from a blend of Bordeaux and Languedoc varieties.
The red wine is made from Merlot (50%), Cabernet Franc and Cot (20%), and optionally Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Noir(Garnacha Tinta) and Cinsaut. The rosé is made from Cabernet Franc (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsaut, Cot, Grenache Noir and Merlot (20%). Well known producers are Domaine des Bruyère, Cave La Malepère, Domaine de Matibat and Cave du Razès and Château de Routier.
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