Beginning Saturday, September 18 and ending the evening of Tuesday, September 21, I’ll be experiencing “Languedoc Camp” in France and I want YOU to join me…virtually of course! During my four-day immersive trip, our group of journalists, sommeliers and others will be offered a deeper understanding of Languedoc through its diverse, high-quality wines, authentic food and unique landscape. We’ll be inspired by the stories and knowledge from a plethora of winemakers and will begin to understand the creativity and spontaneity of the “Languedociens.” Guaranteed are more surprises, too! Don’t miss this journey!
Vineyard at Domaine Montrose – Photo credit: le sommelier.com
How to join me? During Languedoc Camp, I’ll be posting photographs and “stories” across a few social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Grab a bottle of affordable, distinctive wine from Languedoc, follow along on social media (find me at the above links) and promise to leave comments whenever you can. I can’t wait to “see” you!
Before We Go – A Languedoc Primer
Languedoc embraces the Mediterranean Sea at the foothills of the Pyrenees. It’s the largest wine region in France with double the vineyard area of Australia and larger than all of California. 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 memorable wines that are consistent from one vintage to another.
Most of the region boasts a Mediterranean climate and vineyards are on clay and limestone soils. Other areas in Languedoc have a Continental climate with grapes cultivated on schist and granite soils. Low rainfall levels, abundant sunshine, and strong winds help promote natural farming methods and wine production. Because of the variation of climate, soils, and grape varieties, a wide range of wine styles can be found.
Languedoc produces almost a third of all French wine thanks to its 42 AOCs and IGPs that are responsible for more than 144 million bottles! Red wines comprise 59% of production, 23% are rosé and 18% are whites. The main red grapes from Languedoc are Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, and Carignan and white varieties include Picpoul (or Piquepoul), Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Mauzac, Roussanne, Bourboulenc, Clairette, Muscat, Macabeu, Viognier, and Vermentino.
Languedoc is considered the most “green” wine region in the world with many eco-friendly wines including organic to “High Environmental Value” to sustainable and biodynamic. 10% of the world’s organic vineyards and 33% of France’s organic vineyards are in Languedoc. How about rosé from Languedoc? Often considered the “greatest French rosé producer,” the region produces 30% of France’s rosé wines.
The Languedoc Lifestyle
I’ve written about the wines and food of Languedoc for years so what better time to share a few favorites than now? Be inspired to pick up a bottle from your local wine shop, make a favorite recipe for pairing and immerse yourself in this distinctive region from the comfort of your home. And trust me, once I return, there will be even more articles to inspire!
For a few affordable wine suggestions (including a sparkling crémant), enjoy the following articles by clicking each title for the link.
Live the Carefree Life with Languedoc Wine in the Glass
Style, Character, Value: Wines from Languedoc
Affordable Sparkling Wines from Paul Mas
Photo Credit: France Today
You need a recipe to pair with your wines from Languedoc? Here you go…
A Feast of Herbs: Stuffing and Chateau la Roque Pic Saint Loup
Wine and Dine – Grand Vin l’Ostal Cases 2021 and Easy Shrimp Paella
Wine and Dine – Cote Mas Rosé Aurore 2014 and Shrimp and Peas with Farfalle
Picpoul – Photo Credit: Gold Medal Wine Club
As a bonus, on September 30, I’ll be updating this article with a link to YouTube’s Crush on This Episode 64, “Taste Languedoc,” that will be published that day. Stay tuned.
I look forward to seeing you on social media during Languedoc Camp!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
For your free infographic, “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick,” click here.
