Jonathan Rogers of The Solent Wine Experience looks at this amazing region.
The wines of the Languedoc Roussillon region in the south of France have become some of the most exciting wines to be produced for some time. I say ‘become’, but in reality they have been around for a good few years now but they seem to get better and better.
Forty years ago this region was producing huge amounts of mediocre wine with no real potential and certainly no major export markets. The French government had had enough by the late 70’s and began to throw subsidies to the growers to encourage them to plant new grape varieties, reduce yields and generally start producing better wines. They introduced their ‘Vins de Pays’ scheme which helped winemakers who were intent on upping their game in terms of producing quality wines, although there were still quite a few producers who had no intention of changing their ways. Those who did, created a new generation of winemakers and in turn produced a new generation of quality wines.
The early 90’s began to see an influx of Australian winemakers moving to the region realising its potential. This was at a time when Australia was a major success in its branding, exports and off course, its wine. One major player in Australia moved to create a brand typical of the region. Hardy’s purchased Domaine de la Baume in 1990 and this certainly encouraged local producers to take note in their region and to start producing wines the world would take note of. Hardy’s have since sold the Domaine but local producers continue to create a leading force in the ‘brand’ Languedoc Roussillon.
Majestic Wine have recently opened in Havant and have a good varied selection of wines from this region. Here are three to get you started.
Reds
Domaine Les Yeuses Syrah les Epices 2010 IGP Pays D’Oc 13.5% £8.99 - £7.99 when you buy two bottles.
I visited this Domaine back in 2003 and was impressed by the simplicity of the vineyard but still creating a range of quality driven wines. This is made from 100% Syrah with a proportion of it matured in oak. A blend of blackberry, spice and pepper dominate the nose with a medium body and soft rounded fruit and a long finish.
Cuvee Geneviéve Vin de France 2012 12% £4.99
This absolute bargain of a wine is a blend of Carignan and Grenache. It’s full bodied yet fruity and has a long elegant finish.
White
Côte Mas Blanc IGP Pays D’Oc 12.5% £6.99 - £5.99 when you but two bottles
This tropical fruit filled number is a mix of Vermentino, Grenache Blanc with a touch of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. A generous wine it has a peach character with floral and pear hints.
The Solent Wine Experience has recently launched an Online Wine Course at £25 per person, giving you the freedom to learn from the comfort of your own home. For more information visit www.thesolentwineexperience.co.uk