Les Vignerons du Sieur D’Arques, Crémant de Limoux (France) 2014

 Limoux claims to be home to the first sparkling wines, a claim that Champagne, of course, disputes.  But there is no doubt that the town of Limoux near the Pyrenees has long produced a sparkling wine, called Blanquette de Limoux (Blanquette is the local name for the Mauzac grape and means white in the local dialect).  The appellation, Crémant de Limoux, arose in 1990, likely, in part, at least, for easier marketing of the wines.  The fine co-op there, Sieur D’Arques, makes a series of delightful wines, including this one.  Friendly, creamy and suave, it’s a blend of Chardonnay (70%), Chenin Blanc (20%) and Mauzac. Good acidity keeps it fresh and lively.  It is a great buy.