Located in the heart of Languedoc, the AOC Terrasses du Larzac is an appellation full of character. Do you love powerful yet elegant red wines that are built to age? Then you will adore this multifaceted wine-growing region !
Let's embark together on a journey to discover its history, its terroirs, its grape varieties, as well as possible food and wine pairings with local vintages. You will see, the charm of Terrasses du Larzac works at every stage.Happy reading and above all... enjoy your tasting!
Summary
History and Origins of the Terrasses du Larzac
Located north of Montpellier, between the Mediterranean coast and the mountains of the Massif Central, the region of the Terrasses du Larzac is a historical passageway.
This region also has a winemaking tradition that dates back to Antiquity. The Greeks, followed by the Romans, indeed introduced the vine there. At that time, the wine produced throughout Languedoc was widely appreciated and spread thanks to maritime trade on the Mediterranean. However, the term " Terrasses du Larzac " was not yet used during this period.
In the Middle Ages, the regional vineyard experienced its first expansion, notably with the founding of the Abbey of Aniane by Saint Benedict in 782. This abbey, nicknamed the "mother" of European Benedictine abbeys, played a central role in the spread of viticulture in the region.The Abbey of Gellone, founded in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert at the beginning of the 9th century, is also an important place with several vineyards.
The monks then perfected the methods of cultivation and winemaking, producing wines that would probably be between our current rosés and reds. In parallel, the major trade routes crossing Languedoc facilitated exchanges and ensured a market for local wines.
From the 18th century onwards, wine from Languedoc, including that from the Terrasses du Larzac area, was produced in large quantities, often to supply the Parisian market.
The 19th century is marked by the phylloxera crisis, which severely affected the vineyards of Larzac and destroyed a large part of the grapevines. The region had to rebuild by adopting new planting techniques and replanting more resistant grape varieties. This period also marks the desire to improve the quality of wines to make them more high-quality products.
The 20th century marks another turning point for the winemakers of Larzac, who organized to enhance the quality of their production in response to the growing demand for their wines.
The first official mention of "Terrasses du Larzac" as a distinct terroir finally appears only in the 1970s, during the gradual recognition of the Languedoc terroirs. At that time, winemakers and experts began to identify the particular potential of this specific area, notably due to its microclimate and its soil diversity.
From the 1980s, concrete steps were taken to formalize the appellation. Finally, the name "Terrasses du Larzac" was formally integrated into the specifications of the Coteaux du Languedoc appellation in 2004, with recognition as a geographical denomination within this appellation.It was not until 2014 that the Terrasses du Larzac received their official recognition as an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée.
Map of the Terrasses du Larzac appellation
Climates and soils of the Terrasses du Larzac
The terroir of the Terrasses du Larzac benefits from an incredible geological and climatic diversity, shaping unique wines.
Let's start with the soils: originating from the primary and quaternary geological eras, they vary between schists, sandstones, sandy-clay soils rich in stones, limestone marls, and the famous red ruffes, these clayey lands so characteristic of the region.Whether on limestone scree or rolled pebbles, each type of terroir here brings its own differentiation to the character of the wines produced, thus contributing to their beautiful richness. On the climate side, the Terrasses du Larzac are clearly in a Mediterranean zone. Nevertheless, the altitude of the vineyards (ranging from 150m to 500m) as well as the distance from the sea give a unique particularity to the wines of the appellation. The nights are indeed cooler than in other parts of the Languedoc, and this day/night temperature range allows for a slow maturation of the grapes. The result? Concentrated wines, yet always elegant, with a beautiful freshness and acidity that ensures their aging potential.
Summers are also hot and dry, with very little precipitation, often limited to a few thunderstorms in August. In contrast, autumn brings more regular rains, essential for the vineyards. The region is also subject to winds: the tramontane, cold and dry, clears the clouds, while the marin, humid, brings them back. This interplay of winds helps limit vine diseases while ensuring a healthy climate for cultivation.
Sunshine is finally a major asset, and the intense exposure of the vines to the sun allows the planted grape varieties to ripen under optimal conditions.
Vines of the AOC Terrasses du Larzac
The wines of the AOC Terrasses du Larzac
Let's now move on to the part you've all been waiting for : the wines of the region !
The AOC Terrasses du Larzac is today exclusively reserved for red wines, although an extension to white wines is being considered in the near future.
Nine grape varieties are authorized for their production, with four main ones: Grenache noir, Mourvèdre, Syrah and Carignan, which form the basis of the blends.To these varieties are added so-called " accessory " grape varieties such as Cinsault (which can represent up to 25% of the blend), Counoise, Lledoner pelut, Morrastel, or Terret noir, each bringing subtle nuances to the wines.
What distinguishes the local crus is their ability to combine structure and accessibility. Behind soft and melted tannins, the wines of Terrasses du Larzac reveal great aromatic depth. The richness of the soils, combined with the local microclimate, gives very interesting aromatic profiles.
In tasting, aromas of black fruits, tapenade, licorice, garrigue (dried herbs), and even violet are often present.The texture of the cuvées is generally silky and enveloped by an acidity that makes the whole digestible and pleasant.
Thanks to all these characteristics, a great aging potential is generally possible. The best wines of the appellation can last without flinching more than 15 to 20 years in the cellar, if not more !
Finally, from a temperature perspective, we recommend serving your Terrasses du Larzac reds around 16-18°C to fully appreciate their richness.Do not hesitate to decant the younger wines a few hours before tasting so that they can fully reveal themselves !
What to eat with a wine from Terrasses du Larzac?
Freshness and power make Terrasses du Larzac a choice companion to have on hand during a meal. Here are some ideas to make the most of your bottle.
Meats and game: a perfect match
Red meats and game are essentials for a red wine from Terrasses du Larzac !
Imagine a rack of lamb with rosemary or a well-grilled rib of beef. The spicy and fruity notes of the wine also pair wonderfully with rich dishes like a wild boar stew or grilled meats.Reliable choices !
Mediterranean cuisine
The wines from Terrasses du Larzac also pair very well with dishes like a Provençal stew, a moussaka, or a tagine with prunes and spices, which highlight the warm aromas of the Mediterranean.
Aged cheeses
Although cheese generally pairs better with white wine, a red from Terrasses du Larzac can pleasantly surprise when paired with blue-veined cheeses, such as a Roquefort.The aromas of garrigue and the spicy notes of the wine then balance the power and creamy texture of the cheese, creating an astonishingly harmonious pairing.
A matured Comté or an aged Cantal are also possible combinations.
Cheese and AOC Terrasses du Larzac wine: an original pairing to discover!
Chocolate desserts
Finally, as surprising as it may seem, the sometimes cocoa and licorice aromas of Terrasses du Larzac can pair well with chocolate desserts ! Try the pairing with a fondant or dark chocolate mousse if you don't believe us !
So, ready to sit down at the table?
The best wines of the AOC Terrasses du Larzac
Now that you know everything (or almost) about Terrasses du Larzac, we recommend tasting the magnificent vintages from Mas Cal Demoura, a must-visit estate of the appellation !
Located in Jonquières, this property has earned its reputation thanks to its powerful, balanced, and highly refined wines.The meticulous work carried out since 2004 by Vincent and Isabelle Goumard also gives rise to vintages that age beautifully, all in biodynamics. Go for it without hesitation !
As you will have understood, the AOC Terrasses du Larzac is a true gem of Languedoc. So, visit our website
