Pyrenees wine region

Though far removed from the European mountain range of the same name, these gentle hills have other ‘French connections’ including the obligatory game of petanque at one of the many pistes. And the reputation of the shiraz from the Pyrenees is well-known in Europe where these wines are regarded similarly to those from the Rhône Valley.

Primarily known for its red wines, the Pyrenees region was originally selected by the French Remy Martin group in the 1960s for the production of brandy. When the brandy market collapsed they looked to their next area of expertise – sparkling wine. That first vineyard is now named the Blue Pyrenees Estate, and in the ensuing years has been joined by some serious players including the well known Taltarni, Redbank, Mount Avoca and Warrenmang as well as smaller vineyards.

The area pioneered petanque as the perfect sport for wine tasters, with many vineyards now boasting a petanque piste adjacent to cellar door. Regular tournaments are taken seriously and attract players from neighbouring regions and beyond, while the Avoca picnic races are a celebration of country hospitality, specialising in ‘pink lamb and purple shiraz’ – a local wine and food speciality.