A Vineyard in Harmony with Nature
From the outset, Paul and Ben’s approach was rooted in the belief that healthy soils yield wines that speak of their place. They encouraged deep root systems, fostered biodiversity, and revitalized the lunar-like landscapes of their vineyards. As the vines found balance in their environment, the surrounding ecosystem flourished, with plants, insects, and microbial life returning in abundance.
Today, Les Clos Perdus spans 21 hectares across 32 parcels in three distinct regions of Languedoc-Roussillon: Corbières Maritimes, High Corbières, and the Agly Valley. Each parcel tells a story, and each wine represents the character of its terroir.
Three Terroirs, Three Expressions
Corbières Maritimes – Mire La Mer
Here, 7 hectares of vines thrive on alkaline clay and limestone soils near the salt-rich étangs of Peyriac-de-Mer and Bages. Mourvèdre and century-old Carignan form the backbone of Mire La Mer, a wine that exudes depth and coastal vitality.High Corbières – Prioundo
Near Villesèque-des-Corbières, a 1.5-hectare walled plateau sits atop free-draining clay and limestone. Cinsault and Grenache Noir flourish here, yielding Prioundo, a wine of balance, purity, and elegance.Agly Valley, Roussillon – L’Extrême
The steep, schistose slopes of the Agly Valley host 10 hectares of vines. At Mas de las Fredas, Lledoner Pelut and Syrah contribute to the intensity of L’Extrême Rouge, while Grenache Gris from 1895 plantings produces the vibrant L’Extrême Blanc. These low-yielding vines deliver wines of remarkable complexity and acidity, hallmarks of the region’s potential.
A Legacy of Exploration
As Les Clos Perdus celebrates its 20th anniversary, Paul and Ben continue to explore and evolve. Each vintage carries the wisdom of the past, combined with a spirit of curiosity and innovation. Their wines, less fruit-forward but richer in complexity and elegance, are a testament to the synergy between nature and craftsmanship.
Les Clos Perdus stands as a beacon of what is possible when respect for terroir meets an unwavering commitment to sustainability. From the old vines of Corbières to the rugged beauty of the Agly Valley, their wines are not just an expression of place—they are a celebration of it.
Les Clos Perdu
Les Clos Perdus: A Journey Through Time, Terroir, and Transformation
In the heart of Languedoc-Roussillon lies a vineyard that embodies passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of perfection. Les Clos Perdus, founded in 2003 by Paul Old, has become a benchmark for organic and biodynamic viticulture, producing wines that reflect the soul of their terroir.
The Vision of a Dancer-Turned-Winemaker
Paul Old’s journey to winemaking is as captivating as the wines he creates. Originally a dancer from Mount Isa in North Queensland, Paul traveled the world before a visit to the Languedoc-Roussillon in 2002 changed the course of his life. Inspired by the ancient vines, diverse grape varieties, and breathtaking landscapes, Paul envisioned unlocking the untapped potential of the region’s terroirs. A year later, he founded Les Clos Perdus with a modest 1.5 hectares of vines in the Corbières Maritimes.
Over time, Paul’s passion was joined by the expertise of Ben Adams, who came on board in 2013. Together, they have nurtured the vineyard into a thriving ecosystem, demonstrating a commitment to biodiversity and soil health that mirrors their deep respect for nature.