The wines of the incredible Languedoc Roussillon region in the south of France have become some of the most exciting wines to be produced for some time. I say ‘become’, but in reality they have been around for a good few years now but they seem to get better and better.
Forty years ago this region was producing huge amounts of mediocre wine with no real potential and certainly no major export markets. The French government had had enough by the late 70’s and began to throw subsidies to the growers to encourage them to plant new grape varieties, reduce yields and generally start producing better wines. They introduced their ‘Vins de Pays’ scheme which helped winemakers who were intent on upping their game in terms of producing quality wines. This allowed them more freedom than AC wines in terms of yield and more expressive styles. There were still quite a few producers who had no intention of changing their ways. Those who did, created a new generation of winemakers and in turn produced a new generation of quality wines.
The early 90’s began to see an influx of Australian winemakers moving to the region realising its potential. This was at a time when Australia was a major success in its branding, exports and off course, its wine. One major player in Australia moved to create a brand typical of the region. Hardy’s purchased Domaine de la Baume in 1990 and this certainly encouraged local producers to take note in their region and to start producing wines the world would take note of. Hardy’s have since sold the Domaine but local producers continue to create a leading force in the ‘brand’ Languedoc Roussillon.
In terms of dominant grape varieties, anything goes really. For reds there are varieties like Carignan which is big and bold. Grenache produces rounder wines and Cinsault gives lightness and elegance. For whites we have Picpoul de Pinet producing lovely crisp whites whereas Roussanne, Marsanne and Viognier produce fuller rounder whites which are more floral in style. Vermentino is a favourite of mine. These wines tend to have more tropical fruit characters without the aggressive acidity. Also know as Rolle it thrives in Corsica as well as the Languedoc.
Try These:
La Baume Viognier - £13.49 Rich tropical fruit with balanced oak characters.
Picpoul de Pinet Carte Noire - £13.49
Crisp apple fruit flavours with balanced acidity.
Chateau Guery Carignan - £16.99
Without Sulphites, this rich spicy red is smooth with a full finish.
We run Wine and Cheese tastings regularly in the evening at £18.50pp so if you fancy tasting some cracking wines alongside some amazing cheeses then give us a call 01243 698838 for more details