Wine Tasting : Languedoc-Roussillon

Speaker

Eric Sautedé
WSET Advanced Certificate L3

The wines from the Languedoc-Roussillon region in southern France have a fascinating history and an array of enticing characteristics. With a winemaking tradition dating back to the Romans, especially Emperor Domitian and the creation of Narbo Martius, this region has cultivated a reputation for producing exceptional wines, even though starting in the 19th century production shifted towards mass-produced cheap red wine that could satisfy the growing work force – le gros rouge. But in the 1990s, quality production once more prevailed.

The region is now home to 23 appellations in Languedoc and 14 appellations in Roussillon. It has also embraced the organic revolution as the Occitanie region (Languedoc-Roussillon and the Pyrénées) accounts for 36% of France's organic and in-conversion vineyards. In Languedoc, the regional appellation Languedoc AOC forms the base of the classification system, with 10 sub-appellations, including Minervois, Corbières, Picpoul de Pinet, Terrasses du Larzac, Pic Saint Loup and Saint-Chinian. There are also five commune or village appellations, four sweet wine appellations (Muscat de Frontignan being the most well-known) and three sparkling wine appellations, all in Limoux. Roussillon is better known for its five AOP Vins Doux Naturels (Rivesaltes, Maury, Banyuls, Banyuls Grand Cru, and Muscat de Rivesaltes).

Languedoc-Roussillon is the largest wine-producing region in France, known for its diverse terroir and extensive range of grape varieties. The red wines are often bold and full-bodied, displaying rich flavors of dark fruits, spices, and earthy undertones, while the white wines exhibit freshness and vibrancy, featuring notes of citrus, tropical fruits, and floral aromas.

The region's warm Mediterranean climate, combined with the influence of the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean Sea, contributes to the unique character of these wines.

All wines for this workshop are provided by The Wine Guild and East Meets West Fine Wines.