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Languedoc-Rousillon, French for Good Value
Languedoc-Roussillon is the largest winemaking region in the world with a reputation for value for money.
It is estimated that during the 20th century 1 in every 10 bottles of wine originated from Languedoc-Roussillon. Synonymous with value, it is a region all wine lovers should rediscover.
It stretches from the Rhône valley in the north to the Pyrenees in the south. Its position, adjacent to the western Mediterranean, is blessed with sunshine and the perfect conditions to ripen grapes.
Thankfully, a dalliance with cheap, mass market plonk has given way to a focus on quality over quantity. Languedoc now has the highest number of organic wines in France.
Pays d'Oc wines are mostly single varietals, whilst the major appellations are all about blends.
Red Wines
Red and rosé wines are rich, fruity, and fullbodied The most popular grape varieties are Syrah, Grenache, Carignan and Mourvedre
White Wines
White wines are crisp, fresh, and zesty Picpoul and Grenache Blanc are the most commonly planted, alongside Rolle (Vermentino), Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier and Bourboulenc
Sparkling Wines
Limoux is renowned for sparkling wines, production of which predates that of Champagne There are two appellations: Crémant de Limoux and Blanquette de Limoux.
The Best of the Appellations
Corbieres
Fruity and juicy red wines mostly made from Carignan, Syrah and Grenache. Easy going from Corbieres, slightly more serious from Corbieres-Boutenac.
LE LION DE CICÉRON 2019, AOC CORBIÈRES
An organic and compelling blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan. It is aromatic and fruity with supple tannins, flowing into ripe notes of garrigue herbs and cherries.
The vineyards are located directly below an amphitheatre hollowed out by the river Orbieu.
Pair with cold cuts, roast poultry or mature cheese.
CHÂTEAU FABRE GASPARETS 2018, AOC CORBIÈRES-BOUTENAC
Bold aromas and flavours of cherry and black fruits infused with subtle, exotic spices. An organic blend of Mourvèdre, Carignan, Syrah.
Perfect with hearty dishes, juicy rare steak or sausage cassoulet.
Limoux
Limoux combines French finesse and great value. Unlike any other Languedoc appellation Limoux red wines must contain at least 50% Merlot - making for softer, more supple wines.
DOMAINE DE MAYRAC ROUGE 2019, AOC LIMOUX
Notes of black, brambly fruits, pepper and chocolate. Thanks to the blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Syrah, the palate surprises with the quality of its silky tannins, long finish and freshness.
Pair with grilled meats.
Picpoul de Pinet
Within sight of the Mediterranean, the vineyards surround the Bassin de Thau. The sea is never far away, the appellation tag line "son terroir c'est la mer", translates as our terroir isthe sea.
SEL ET DE SABLE 2022, AOC PICPOUL DE PINET
Made from 100% Piquepoul, one of the oldest varieties in the Languedoc.
Fresh and floral aromas lead to a dry and refreshing palate. There is a zingy citrus note, tropical fruits, and a distinctive twang of sea spray salinity.
The classic food pairing is fresh oysters.
Terrasses du Larzac
Previously part of Côteaux du Languedoc, Terrasses du Larzac vineyards are in the foothills of the Massif Central and are some of the highest in Languedoc at up to 400m above sea level.
CAIZERGUES "LES AMORIERS" 2018, AOC TERRASSES DU LARZAC
A blend of Carignan, Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Syrah. Powerful notes of red cherry, cocoa, and a touch of liquorice. Well balanced with a silky mouthfeel.
Delicious with grilled steak and autumnal ceps.
St. Chinian
Nestled into the Montagne Noire, the vines of Saint Chinian look out across the Mediterranean Sea. There is a brightness, freshness and perfumed elegance which you rarely find in other appellations.
St Chinian wines have the potential to be the most refined in Languedoc.
CHATEAU COUJAN BOIS JOLI 2019, AOC SAINT CHINIAN
40 year old Syrah and Mouverdre vines have been used for this wonderfully decadent wine.
Bright black fruits are complimented by garrigue herbs, earthy truffle and Christmas spices - cloves and cinnamon - thanks to 14 months in French oak barrels.
Try this with slow roasted lamb.
Buy now from £22.50
PETIT PARADIS 2022, AOC SAINT CHINIAN
As precious as it is rare, whites make up just 1% of St Chinian production.
This is a complex, generous wine made from Grenache Blanc, Marsanne and Rolle. It has complex aromas of white fruit and quince jam. The palate is intense, soft, with a long spicy finish.
Pair it with monkfish tagine or fresh tuna.
