Love Chardonnay? Limoux needs to be on your radar. Just south of Carcassonne, France, the region is home to some of Languedoc-Roussillon’s most unique vineyards and yields fulsome yet fresh expressions of the grape that many have yet to discover. Mark Hoddy’s elegant, apple-accented La Voûte would be the perfect pour to start your exploration.

Several factors set the area’s vines (and wines) apart.

First, the climate in this corner of the Languedoc is unlike anywhere else in its surrounds. Far but not too far from temperature moderating influences of the Mediterranean, the region enjoys warm-to-hot summers, but is noticeably cooler other times of the year and sees quite a bit of rain.

Second, there’s the elevation. Vineyards here sit between 650 and 1,650 feet up, which means grapes get ample sunlight and cooling winds, and the temperature shifts greatly between night and day. All of this equates to longer and later ripening times that are just perfect for Chardonnay.

Couple these qualities with a local law that says all whites need to be barrel fermented, and you get stunning wines that are incredibly refreshing and deliciously opulent all at the same time.

To make this wine, Mark looked to top sparkling wine producer and longtime friend Bruno Bouché (have you tried his bubbles yet?), who let him pick from his oldest, most cherished vines.

”The vineyards lie in the foothills of the mountains, protected from the worst of the weather, but with cool breezes to balance the harsh summer sun,” says Mark. “It’s hard work in the vineyard and in the cellar, but Bruno and I have always agreed the result is worth it.”

In the glass, you can expect rounded notes of toasty vanilla, spiced apple and peach threaded by a pleasing mineral quality. It’d be a delightful partner for nearly any preparation of chicken or a firm white fish like haddock, turbot or sole. (It’d also be great all on its own.)

It won’t be long before Limoux Chardonnay catches on around the world. Order your share of La Voûte before it’s gone!