he Razès soil :

The hilly environment is very noticeable in the South West ...

On the terraces & plains, that are made up of large pebbles, (plateau de Brugairolles, de Lauragel/Routier) it is much earlier fruiting than the clay/chalk slopes of Alaigne. The Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon & Franc grapes revel in this environment ! !