Languedoc-Roussillon: land of diversity
With its250,000 hectares, THELanguedoc-Roussillonis here
largest wine region in France and one of the most diversified in the country. Equipped
of aMediterranean climate, ofvery varied soilsas well as a wine tradition
ancestral, it offersan incredible wealth of grape varieties, appellations
and types of wine, capable of delighting fans around the world. Let's do
so a brief summary of all its characteristics.
Languedoc grape varieties
The grape varieties grown in Languedoc-Roussillon are very numerous.
The region mainly produces red wines(75% of the vineyard)and an
fifty varieties of this type are represented. Among these, we find
notablythereShiraz, THEGrenache, THECarignanand theMerlot. However many other
grape varieties are present as theCabernet Sauvignon, THECinsault, THE
Mourvèdreor even theCabernet Franc. All these varieties are also used to compose deliciousrosé wines, mostly focused on fun.
Although a minority, the white grape varieties offer very beautiful wines with varied profiles. The most planted variety in the region is theChardonnay but we also findSauvignon,Muscat,
Viognier,White Grenacheand gray, Maccabeu,VermentinoorRoussanneAndMarsanne.
Languedoc appellations
Languedoc-Roussillon has many appellations
famous wineries. Among the most famous arePic Saint Loupwhere the
domainThe Winery Owlproduces magnificent cuvées,Faugeres where theMas
Gabineleachievesgreat wines for laying down, or even the
Cotes du Roussillon(Schists domain) as well asthe AOC Minervois(Domain
of Courbissac). AOC Languedoc, Saint-Chinian, Fitou, Corbières or even
Muscat of Rivesaltesare also recognized for their beautiful production
wine growing.
PGIs are also very present in the region and
also represent almost 80% of local production! Thus, the
IGP Pays d’Oc,Catalan Coasts(Château de L'Ou),Cevennes (Domaine Perdrix-Lasouche)
OrHeraultare capable of producingfriends wineslike thepowerful wines
with magnificent aging potential.
Types of wines and terroirs
The wines produced in Languedoc-Roussillon are extremely
varied. So, besides the classic reds and whites, the region is also
known for itsNatural Sweet Wines, such as theBanyulsand theMaury, products to
from grapes harvested late and mutated. Thesesweet winesoffer a
concentration of flavors as well as exceptional complexity, like
those made by theMas Amiel, absolute reference of the genre. More rarely, surprising
orange winesare also carried out. Finally, some refreshingsparkling winesare also produced, like Blanquette de Limoux.
From a terroir point of view, Languedoc-Roussillon is a real
geological millefeuille. From the Mediterranean coast to the Pyrenees mountains,
passing through the plains and the hills, each sub-region has its own
microclimate and its specific soil types, giving the wines a great
diversity of aromas, flavors and structures. In the north, the soils are rich
in shale, limestone and sandstone. The river valleys of the Hérault department
they offeralluvial soilswhile the coastal areas are marked
by the influence of the Mediterranean Sea, withclay-limestone and sandy soils.
In conclusion, the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region isA
true French wine treasure. With its range of grape varieties, appellations,
types of wines and terroirs, it offers a rich and
exciting. Whether you are a fan of red, white, rosé, sweet or
effervescent, you will find within itquality wines that will know you
convince. And if you need advice, don't hesitate to call
The Lighted Cellar!