Maxime Magnon is one of the most fascinating and innovative figures in contemporary French winemaking. Originally from Burgundy, Maxime did not inherit a family domaine, as is often the case in French winemaking tradition.
In 2002, driven by a deep love for the land and a pioneering vision, he chose to settle in the heart of the Hautes Corbières, specifically in Villeneuve-les-Corbières, near the southern border of Fitou. Here, amidst rugged and captivating landscapes, he carved out his own story, becoming one of the leading figures in the revival of the Corbières appellation.
The domaine spans 14 hectares of steep and fragmented vineyards, characterized by predominantly schist and limestone soils. These terrains, nearly devoid of topsoil and dominated by rocks and garrigue, present immense challenges for any winemaker. Yet, it is precisely this harsh and wild nature that imbues Maxime’s wines with their remarkable minerality and authenticity. The vines, many of which are over a century old, include varieties such as Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and some rare native grapes, all of which Maxime tends with artisanal care.
Following in the footsteps of illustrious mentors like Didier Barral and Jean Foillard, Maxime is a staunch advocate of organic and biodynamic farming. In his approach, the land is seen as an ecosystem to be respected and preserved. During the winter months, flocks of sheep, donkeys, and cows graze among the vines, enriching the soil and promoting biodiversity. The entire cultivation and winemaking process is strictly natural: fermentation relies exclusively on indigenous yeasts, without the use of pesticides, insecticides, or other chemical interventions. Vinification involves whole-cluster fermentation, while the whites are lightly filtered and only minimally sulfited during bottling.
Maxime Magnon’s wines not only restore dignity to an often-overlooked appellation but also serve as a model of balance between innovation and tradition. His expertise in working with old vines and native varieties, combined with his dedication to respecting the terroir, positions him among the most visionary winemakers of his generation.
Through every bottle, Maxime tells a story of passion, effort, and love for a land that is challenging yet extraordinarily generous. His wines are not only a delight to the palate but also a sensory journey through the rugged hills of the Hautes Corbières.
