South of France Part 1: Languedoc-Roussillon

Last week we discussed Aniane in the Languedoc region of France in relation to the new Mondavi project. This week is a more in depth continuation of the South of France. The entire region breaks down into 3 major areas: Languedoc-Roussillon, Provence and the Southwest - we will continue to take a look at the other areas in coming weeks.

As mentioned in the previous article, Lanquedoc-Roussillon (or 'Midi' as the French sometimes call it) has spent the most recent years revamping its 'jug/bulk' wine image. This has been encouraged by the government who have implemented AOC rulings namely in the "Vin de Pays" category ('country wine'). Furthermore local producers are really starting to make names for themselves without any prestigious AOC labeling. Such producers are growing more international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, which is not a traditional South of France grape and therefore does not allow AOC qualification. This does not seem to matter however, and individual property names are becoming common on wines from this region.

The Languedoc-Roussillon region actually contains 40% of French vineyards! However it only produces 10% of the AOC wines which does tell you something about the AOC's perceived quality of this regions wine - although the change in varietals and quality that we discussed above is relatively new and expected to be incorporated into the AOC system eventually.

You may also associate the classification of "Vin de Pays d'Oc" with Languedoc-Roussillon, it is an AOC definition and covers the entire region. Oc is actually the language that was once spoken in Languedoc. This is the 'master' designation for the region with smaller departments within it - which would incorporate the name of a town e.g. "Vin de Pays du Gard".

Traditionally this region produced red wine but today excellent examples of both red and white wines are produced. Of course, bulk wine is still produced, often for local consumption. Large wine co-operatives buy wine from individual farmers and distribute with machines that very much resemble petrol pumps! As a local person, you would visit with a jug or large bottle and fill up!

For excellent maps and lists of wine producers in this region visit Languedoc Wine Direct in my French Wine Links. I recently had the pleasure of visiting the French side of St Maartin in the French Caribbean and indulged in some beautiful wines from the South of France - they were extraordinary good value and very delicious. I highly recommend getting to know this region of France while its good and cheap - for the time being it's a well kept secret!

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