Languedoc Roussillon
This huge area runs from the Spanish border right the way across the Mediterranean coastline to Provence. The four departments that make up Languedoc-Roussillon are the Pyrennees-Orientales, the Aude, Herault and Gard. The countryside is truly dramatic with crumbling castles clinging to seemingly impossibly steep mountain crags. The history of the region is deeply immersed in the fascinating mysteries of the heretical Cathars.
There are some fascinating towns to visit in the area, such as the reconstructed fortress citadel of Carcassonne, which is convenient for the vineyards of the Minervois; the small village of Minerve itself is also a recommended detour. Moving on to the coast, Narbonne is an attractive traditional town along the banks of the river. On the South coast is the very beautiful artists haunt of Collioure and nearby Banyuls is also famed for its sweet wines. To the far East of the region is Sete, with its canals which are the venue for a hilarious water jousting match each July and just to the West of this are the vineyards of Frontignan.
Wine-wise the region houses dozens of appellations and a seemingly endless variety of wines, the best known of which are Corbières, Minervois, Pic St Loup, Fitou and La Clape. There are interesting fortified ‘Vins Doux Naturels' such as Muscats and Banyuls.
Throughout its length and breadth, heat is the uniting factor, with summer temperatures often reaching vine-wilting heights. This lead to the planting of many heat resistant varietals, most notably Grenache, Cinsault and latterly Syrah.
The reds can be sublime, with power, fruit and longevity. The whites are a more mixed affair, as generally speaking the local white varieties are not up to much. There is great potential for ‘imported’ varietals such as Chardonnay, Viognier and Marsanne.
For decades the wines were tannic, fruitless articles, which were the product of over-cropping and poor vinification in badly equipped wineries. Today across the board there is dynamism in the area. Once lumbering co-ops and large firms are turning out good, well priced wines, the ever-growing band of top estates are making some seriously classy wines.
Food specialities of the Languedoc include Boillinada a fish and potato bake, Soupe aux Feves, broad bean & dumpling soup, Brandade de Morue, rustic purée of salt cod, Civet de Langoustes: Crawfish in red wine and Cassoulet: Haricot, sausage & duck or pork bake.
