The Languedoc vineyard dates back to Roman times and is said to be the world’s largest. To compete on global markets, the outlook has changed in recent decades and the focus is now on quality rather than quantity.
Both Minervois and Corbieres wines claim a number of AOC, the quality label relating to grapes, soils and micro-climates, but the ‘vins de pays’ are by no means inferior. These are produced by growers keen to experiment with grape varieties and proportions rather than be limited by strict AOC rules. There is also a small production of organic wine.
Fine Wine in Languedoc, Corbieres and Minervois
Corbieres wine takes its name from the arid hills where it is produced, between Carcassonne, Beziers and Perpignan. It includes 11 areas and claims a large proportion of Carignan grapes. Most of the production yields a rich full bodied red wine, slightly spicy, with aromas of dark berries and thyme. Corbieres wine goes well with grilled red meat, game and goat’s cheese.
Minervois wine comes from the rolling plain north east of Carcassonne, covering 45 villages such as Siran, Minerve and La Liviniere. Rich reds have pride of place but the dry white and fruity rosé are equally pleasant. Minervois wine can complement almost any food but some experts recommend it especially with cold meats and Brie. The aroma is said to be of blackcurrant, violet and cinnamon.
Wine Festivals in Languedoc
Wine festivals take place across Languedoc to celebrate the grape harvest, the new wine or the first sign of spring in the vineyards. Most are accompanied by generous helpings of food and wine, music, dance or street parades, occasionally in period costumes. Popular festivals are held in Béziers, Ouveillan and Limoux where ‘Toques et Clochers’, or ‘chef’s hats and church spires’ festival, promotes Chardonnay wines and donates proceeds for restoration. Festivals are a bonus on any holiday in the south of France.
In late October, Minervois stages the ‘Grands Chemins’ festival, a week-long event highlighting the work of local wine growers and artists who for this occasion, set up special exhibitions in wine cellars and estates. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the fine Minervois wine and local fare while discovering unique paintings and sculptures, wood, stone or metal, many related to the area and the wine trade.
Discover Languedoc Wine on Wine Tasting Holidays
Languedoc wine tasting holidays vary in duration, may be with a group or tailor made and may offer accommodation on site. Programmes range from wine tasting events, for beginners or professionals, to matching food and wine, blending, understanding grape varieties, touring vineyards and meeting wine growers. Venues include the Vinecole wine school south of Carcassonne.
Alternatively, hire a car at Carcassonne airport and plan your own wine tasting holidays. Hotel and gite owners can often arrange or advise on visits to wine cellars and vineyards while some run their own wine appreciation workshops. Meanwhile top restaurants go to great lengths to showcase Languedoc wines alongside regional specialities. In ‘Raisins du Soleil’ in Bize Minervois, wine master Marie Binistre reveals her own collection, including rare wines, and as you proceed through the meal, her passion and knowledge are sure to bring a new dimension to food and wine matching.
Solange Hando - I am a travel writer, editor and photographer, contributing to a range of publications in the UK and worldwide.
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