To say that the Lapeyre family has been involved in all facets of wine for generations, as vignerons, coopers and merchants whilst true would not fully explain Luc’s devotion to his life as a vigneron. www.luc-lapeyre.leminervois.com
In the introduction of his website Luc asks that on entering his property you leave down your watch as you might your coat and let yourself be guided by the rhythm of the vineyard. Luc is a gentle giant, the original bon viveur, who sets about making natural wines that express where they come from. Luc is fanatical about terroir and letting the vines express themselves to bring out the character that defines each vintage.
Luc (pictured here with Fionualla Harkin from Wines Direct)Â presented three wines to the students:
 Domaine Luc Lapeyre, Les San Bres 2009
Mainly Grenache, which presented the students with a juicy fruity attractive elegant style of wine.
 Domaine Luc Lapeyre, L’Arourier 2008
“From one of the top estates in Minervois, a lovely rich, harmonious wine, with classy savoury fruits; smooth but grown up with a nice dry finish, and some liquorice edges. Perfect with most stews and casseroles. This is brilliant value for money, and well worth buying by the case.” John Wilson, Irish Times Wines of the Year.
“Talk about a wine with attitude! Aromas that will make the smoke of the fire seem insipid; flavours that will leave you on the lookout for the biggest, rarest slab of meat you can see. Smouldering oak provides the backdrop to Syrah-dominated ripe, juicy berries. Stirring stuff.” Mary DoweyÂ
Domaine Luc Lapeyre, Les Clots de L’Amourier 2007
“A mature, elegant Minervois with lovely pointed, piquant dark fruits, plenty of warming alcohol and a big, spicy finish.”The Best Of Wine In Ireland
Our thanks to Fionnuala Harkin of Wines Direct for arranging the visit. www.winesdirect.ie