LA COUMO ESTATE VINEYARD
Both vineyards are located in the Pyrénées-Orientales, a wild and remote part of southern France nestled against the border with Catalonia. This region is steeped in history and shaped by a unique cultural blend of Occitan and Catalan influences. The name “Coumo” is derived from the local Occitan dialect—specifically the Languedocien variety—and refers to a steep valley or mountain pass, a fitting description of the terrain here. These narrow, rugged corridors have long defined the landscape.
We acquired this site in 2023, drawn to its beauty and potential. Shortly after, we were able to expand our footprint by purchasing an adjacent parcel of old-vine Carignan. The vineyard is primarily planted to Grenache, with smaller amounts of Grenache Gris and Macabeo tucked into the lower part of the pass.
The vines, many of which are more than 80 years old, are deeply rooted in fractured schist—a metamorphic rock known for producing wines with a distinctive mineral signature and remarkable energy. Farming here is not easy. The terrain is fairly steep, but we believe that the best vineyards often lie in the most demanding places.
Surrounding the vines is a thriving ecosystem of wild Mediterranean plants. Figs grow alongside rosemary, Spanish broom, bay laurel, thyme, and lavender. These aromatic herbs not only fill the air with their heady scent, but they also support biodiversity and give the site a vivid, sensory identity that carries through to the wines.
We farm the vineyard without irrigation, using organic practices to preserve the health of the soil and encourage resilience in the vines.
Two small stone shelters—known locally as cazots—sit quietly among the vines. In time, they’ll be restored to host guests for tastings, long lunches, or simple moments of rest and reflection, surrounded by the sights and scents of this beautiful, unspoiled place.
LE FALGAYRA ESTATE VINEYARD
In the Occitan language, “falgueira” (or “falgayra”) refers to a place where ferns grow in abundance—essentially a lush, fern-covered hillside or a patch of bracken. True to its name, a small creek called Ruisseau du Falgayra runs through this property, winding its way through the terrain and contributing to the site’s serene, natural charm.
We purchased this site in 2023 and have been slowly shaping it with intention and care. In early 2025, we expanded the vineyard by adding a nearby parcel planted to younger Grenache, along with a few acres of Syrah that are already adapting beautifully to the land.
The vines here are planted in black schist, and range in age from 30 to over 80 years old. The soil—dark, layered, and mineral-rich—offers excellent drainage and contributes complexity to the wines. There is additional space on the property that could be planted in the future, though for now, we’re in no rush. Our approach is thoughtful and measured, allowing the land to guide us.
Like our neighboring vineyard, this site is rich with wild Mediterranean flora. The landscape is alive with native plants—ferns, thyme, wild rosemary, and scrubby bushes—which attract bees, birds, and other wildlife. At the top of the hill, there’s a small cazot, or stone shelter, with a shaded, flat clearing in front of it—a peaceful spot we envision using for quiet tastings or moments of reflection amid the vines.
We farm this vineyard organically and without irrigation, respecting the natural rhythm of the land and relying on deep-rooted vines to access the moisture and nutrients they need. It’s a rugged, beautiful site—quiet and remote, but full of life.
Clos Lointain | Côtes Catalanes | France
info@closlointain.com
206-963-0792
@clos_lointain
©2025 Clos Lointain Wines