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WINE REGIONS Languedoc-Roussillon |
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Languedoc-Roussillon Wines Costieres de Nimes What some say is a Rhone wine due to its close proximity to the Rhone river, this AOC produces many strong, rich wines in the Rhone style using the same grape varieties. Very good value for the price, since it is not widely excepted as a Rhone wine, but the quality is just as good or better. Coteaux du Languedoc This appellation covers alot of ground and now offers excellent "cru" wines which are produced in the villages that are allowed to show their names on the label. These include Montpeyroux, Pic St. Loup and St. Saturnin. The quality of these particuliar wines represents the best in the entire region and many show-up wines of greater cost from neighboring appellations. Corbieres Producing often powerful, well-built wines with heavy doses of Old Vine Carignan in the blend. Some require aging but soften and mature well with time. Those that are masterfully blended with Syrah can represent excellent value. They stand up to the heavy stews, meats and cheeses that are staples of this area. Minervois With higher elevations than many of its neighbors, the vineyards of this region put out soft, expressive wines that are enjoyed early but with great complexity. Delicate fruit combined with a subtle earthiness make these some of the best wines in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. The village of La Liviniere is of particular note. Cotes Du Roussillon Terraced vineyards and reddish colored soils dominate the region. There are also village wines which form the Cotes du Roussillon Villages AOC. A majority of Carignan is grown here, but blended with other varietals like Syrah and Grenache that are known to the area. The unique soils and long hours of sun give this region consistent character and quality. Fitou Actually there are two Fitous. One higher up and away from the coastline, the other down near the sea. The wines are luscious and light and probably the most easy-drinking in the entire Languedoc regon. Limoux This village in the Roussillon stakes the claim of being the first to produce sparkling wines, even before Champagne. The Blanquette de Limouxs are excellent wines that stand up to the high-bred Champagnes at much lower prices. Also quite a bit of quality Chardonnay is being made in this area. Picpoul de Pinet Down along the coast in the Coteaux du Languedoc, this dry white wine is plentiful. Not as well-known as the dry Muscadets of the Loire, it is often more refreshing and enjoyable as a wine to serve with seafood. Cabardes North of the city of Carcassonne, this small village is producing excellent hybrids, blends of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. High elevation and mountain soils with good exposure give the wines character, smoothness and complexity. St. Chinian Situated between Minervois and Faugeres, this region was given appellation status in 1982. The name is derived from the monk Aniane who first planted vines here in 862. Banyuls This is the red Vin doux Naturel, or sweet wine made near the town of Colliure. Predominently Grenache and made with varying degrees of sweetness, similiar to its Spanish counterpart Sherry. The supersweet, darker wines are said to be the perfect accompaniment to chocolate. Colliure A small seaside town near the border with Spain. The appellation makes Grenache based blends that are worth looking into even if a bit obscure. Faugeres Rich and darkly intense wines made here, full of spice flavor like those found in parts of the Southern Rhone. Grenache, Syrah, Carignan and Mourvedre are used to make the mostly red wines produced which can stand up to aging. Other Languedoc-Roussillon AOC: Muscat de Lunel La Clape Muscat de Rivesaltes Cabrieres Maury
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