May 30 is Languedoc Day and if you need yet another reason to taste exceptionally affordable wine from this authentic and diverse region of southern France, then this is it! The Languedoc-Roussillon region which embraces the Mediterranean Sea at the foothills of the Pyrenees is the largest wine region in France with double the vineyard area of Australia and larger than all of California – 148.5 million cases of wine are produced. Its proximity to the mountains and the sea, and a variety of soil types and climate are just a few natural factors which help produce delicious wines which are consistent from one vintage to another. What’s not to love?
Most of the region boasts a Mediterranean climate and clay/limestone soils. Other areas have a Continental climate with schist and granite soils. Low rainfall levels, abundant sunshine, and strong winds help promote natural farming methods and wine production. In fact, 30% of France’s organic wine is from the Languedoc. Thanks to the variation of climate, soils, and grape varieties, a wide range of wine styles can be found.
The main red grapes from which wine production in the Languedoc is centered are Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Carignan all of which are used primarily as blends. Beautiful rosé wines can be found from this region as well. White grapes used as blends include Piquepoul, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Mauzac, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Clairette, Muscat, Maccabeu, Viognier, and Vermentino. And let’s not forget the lovely sparkling wines which have been made in the Languedoc since 1531! Some of my favorites from Limoux are from Mauzac, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay grapes.
I’m thrilled to share the following wine reviews of recently received samples from three areas of the Languedoc: Picpoul de Pinet, Corbières, and Minervois.
Picpoul de Pinet
Located near the coast with a Mediterranean climate of steady sunshine, even day and night temperatures, and gentle winds and breezes, the alluvial soils help to produce soft, rich wines. This area is the largest white wine producing appellation in the Languedoc.
*2012 Picpoul-de-Pinet Hugues Beaulieu (sample) – Known as the “Muscadet of the South”, 100% Picpoul grapes in this wine lend colors of pale yellow with shades of green. Its aromas of lemon and spice with a hint of grapefruit were delightful. And on the palate? The traditional bright acidity of the Picpoul grapes along with notes of green apple, honeydew melon, lemon, and minerality led to a brilliantly refreshing finish which was perfect with the spicy crab dish I served. You may also want to enjoy the Picpoul with oysters, Thai food, sushi, shellfish, and light cheeses. Cost is around $10.
Corbières
Corbières is the largest AOC region in the Languedoc. Vineyards produce red, white, and rosé wines with Carignan predominant. Wines are the traditional Languedoc blends of Carignan, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Grenache. Found in the southern area of the region, its Mediterranean climate is characterized by a heat and strong winds. Likewise, a variety of soils which include shale, limestone, sandstone, and marl offer a unique quality to the wines.
*Domaine Sainte-Eugènie Corbières 2010 (sample) – This lovely blend of 40% Carignan, 30% Grenache Noir, and 30% Syrah was dark purple in the glass with aromas of subtle red fruits, florals, salinity, herbs, and sweet spice. The tannins and medium acidity were balanced. On the palate, tastes of juicy plums, blackberries, cherries, and raspberries were incredibly well balanced with smooth tannins and medium acidity. I loved the soft, velvet finish which paired well with our cheese course, but you could also pair this beauty with barbeque, duck, or lamb… Cost is $12.
Minervois
Bordered by the Canal du Midi to the south and the Montagne Noire (Black Mountain) to the north, the vineyards, all facing south, are located across “terrasses”, a natural amphitheatre of sorts. Located in the center of the Languedoc region, soils of chalk and pebbles at the base of the mountain and sandstone and granite at the higher elevations can be found. The wind assumes an important role. Red, white, rosé, and sweet wines are produced in Minervois although the major emphasis is on Syrah. And if you love olive oil, this area is noted for their production.
*Gerard Bertrand Minervois 2011 (sample) – Equal amounts of Syrah and Carignan are the blend in this spicy, aromatic wine. On the nose, I identified sweet spice, dark red and black fruits. The intense palate profile of more spice, black fruit, prunes, and coffee along with well integrated tannins were lush and the finish was smooth, long and pleasurable. Enjoy this mouthwatering wine with your mother’s pot roast, game meats, pasta, or any dishes with a tomato based sauce (like moi!). Cost is a value packed $15.
Celebrate Languedoc Day on May 30 with a bottle of affordable, unique wine from this diverse region. Given the variety of styles exuding the character of the terroir and a price point unmatched by few wines of such quality, rest assured you will find a wine to love. And if you are on Twitter, I’ll “see” you on Friday as we join the conversation about wines from the Languedoc while using the hashtag #LanguedocDay!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
Carl Giavanti
Cindy Rynning