Stepping off the flight at the wonderfully located Perpignan Airport, the first thing you feel is the August heat and the Pyrenees rising in the distance. A spectacular start to a wonderful visit of the Lafage Winery and vineyards. In the heart of Roussillon, the southernmost point of France, in a stone-built 15th century Catalan farmhouse, Domaine Lafage overlooks the road that connects the small town of Perpignan to the Mediterranean coast. A unique panorama shows an incredible view over the sea, dominated by the peak of the mountain of Canigou, which is very dear to the Catalans.

The vineyards of the Domaine today extend over more than 350 hectares across the whole of Roussillon, from the Mediterranean shores at Canet-en-Roussillon, to the Pyrenean foothills of Aspres, via Maury. It was stunning to see the different soils and altitudes over the course of 2 full days in the area.

Naturally the changing climate is of huge concern for the region, with a lack of rain and excess heat beginning to significantly impact the soil. In order to start combating these issues, Lafage have begun working with the International Wineries for Climate Action (IWCA) to reduce their overall carbon emissions. They have also become committed to regenerative farming which attempts to lower the impact of grape growing on the soil and allow it to maintain it's natural balance of nutrients and moisture.

Enjoying the Vineyard

Thirsty Grapes

In only two decades, Domaine Lafage has firmly established itself as one of the benchmark winemakers in the Roussillon, and Jean-Marc and Eliane Lafage have become two of the region’s most recognised ambassadors. If you've shopped with us in the last few years I'm sure you will recognise their striking rosé in a frosted glass bottle with a glass cork. However this winery is about much more than just an iconic rosé, they have a huge range of whites, reds and even dessert wine all made to the same exacting standard, regardless of the price point.

The Incredible Jean-Marc

Old Vine Grenache Gris

Thanks to Lafage and Mackenway (The importer in Ireland) we were lucky enough to visit the winery and several of the vineyards dotted around the Roussillon. The winery itself is spectacular, with incredible equipment and a dedicated staff producing a dizzying array of different bottles. The new bottling machine is a thing of beauty for any engineering enthusiast.

If you haven't had the pleasure of trying some of the Lafage wines then we'd be delighted to talk you through the full selection in the store, we're always well stocked across the range. If you'd rather shop online, we have some of our favourites below:

Domaine Lafage La Retro

Lafage Miraflors Rose

Lafage Grenache 3

Domaine Lafage Fundacio