Discover the Rising Stars of Languedoc Wines at Calais Vins and Olivier Vins
The wines of Languedoc-Roussillon are quickly becoming the stars of British tables, defying trends and shining brightly in a market that has seen a general decline. According to Harpers, while the overall wine market in the UK has experienced a 4% decline, Languedoc wines have managed to carve out significant growth with a 21% increase in sales. Whether you prefer red, white, or rosé, Languedoc wines are being increasingly enjoyed, with a massive uptick in consumption. But what exactly explains this success? The answer lies in the diversity of wines, the regional AOPs, and the now-famous Picpoul de Pinet. In this article, we will help you navigate the world of Languedoc-Roussillon wines and make the best choices, especially with the impressive selection available at Calais Vins. Buckle up for a journey through the sunny South of France.
Languedoc or Roussillon: Where Do These Wines Come From?
Languedoc-Roussillon, nestled in the south of France, is a wine region of impressive scale and diversity. The region is home to over 1,200 independent wineries, 550 cooperatives, and 150 wine trading companies. This vast landscape is characterized by over 20 AOPs (Appellations d'Origine Protégée) and 12 PGIs (Protected Geographical Indication, known as IGP in French), which cover a diverse array of terroirs and climatic influences, each contributing uniquely to the wine production.
The Scale and Diversity of Languedoc-Roussillon Wines
The sheer variety within the region is staggering. From the coastal plains to the mountainous inland areas, each sub-region offers something distinct. The diverse soils – from limestone to clay to schist – combined with the Mediterranean climate, create ideal conditions for vine cultivation. The result? A rich tapestry of wines that range from robust reds and crisp whites to fresh rosés and sparkling wines, each with a character deeply tied to its place of origin.
For example, the Pays d’Oc IGP covers a broad swath of the Languedoc, offering winemakers the freedom to experiment with a wide range of grape varieties, both indigenous and international. This flexibility has led to a dynamic and innovative wine culture, where traditional methods coexist with modern winemaking techniques.
Explore some notable PGI wines from the region:
o Pays d’Oc IGP:
This designation covers a wide area and includes a diverse range of wines.
o Saint Guilhem le Désert IGP:
Known for its unique terroir, this area produces distinctive wines that are gaining recognition.
o Côtes Catalanes IGP:
This region, closer to the Spanish border, produces wines with a distinct Mediterranean influence.
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The History and Evolution of Roussillon Wines
The history of winemaking in Roussillon is as rich as the wines themselves. Originally planted by the Greeks, and later cultivated by the Romans, the region’s vineyards have seen a remarkable transformation. For many years, these wines were considered lower in quality, but since the 1970s, winemakers have made significant strides in improving their vineyards and winemaking techniques. This dedication has elevated Languedoc Roussillon wines to international acclaim, making them a favorite on the world’s finest tables.
The Famous AOPs of Languedoc-Roussillon
Beyond PGI wines, Languedoc-Roussillon is known for its prestigious AOPs, each representing a specific area with strict regulations ensuring quality and authenticity. These appellations are the jewels of the region, showcasing the best that the terroir has to offer.
• AOP Blanquette de Limoux:
Considered the oldest sparkling wine in the world, Blanquette de Limoux is a vibrant and refreshing wine made predominantly from the Mauzac grape. It’s a must-try for lovers of sparkling wines.
• Coteaux du Languedoc:
This vast AOP encompasses several sub-regions, each with its own character. Wines from this area range from light and fruity whites to rich and complex reds.
• AOP Cabardès:
Situated where Atlantic and Mediterranean influences meet, Cabardès wines offer a unique blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Grenache, resulting in a balanced and aromatic profile.
These AOPs represent the pinnacle of winemaking in Languedoc-Roussillon, with each bottle telling a story of the land and the people who craft these wines with passion and dedication
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The Main Grape Varieties of Languedoc-Roussillon
The diversity of Languedoc-Roussillon is also reflected in its grape varieties. The region is a veritable playground for both indigenous and international grape varieties, offering a wide palette of flavors and styles.
Red Grape Varieties
• Grenache: A cornerstone of southern French winemaking, Grenache brings body, warmth, and a characteristic spiciness to many of the region’s red blends.
• Syrah: Known for its deep color and rich flavors of dark berries and pepper, Syrah thrives in the Languedoc’s sunny climate.
• Mourvèdre: This grape adds structure, tannins, and a touch of rusticity to blends, often contributing flavors of dark fruit and earthy notes.
• Carignan: Once considered a workhorse grape, Carignan is now celebrated for its ability to produce wines with depth and complexity, particularly when made from old vines.
• Cinsault: While often used in rosé production, Cinsault also finds its way into red blends, adding softness and a floral character.
White Grape Varieties
• Grenache Blanc: A versatile white grape that produces wines with good body and flavors of citrus and stone fruits.
• Clairette: Often used in blends, Clairette brings freshness and a delicate floral note to white wines.
• Roussanne: Known for its aromatic complexity, Roussanne contributes flavors of pear, honey, and flowers, often used in more premium white blends.
• Piquepoul: The star of Picpoul de Pinet, this grape produces crisp, zesty whites with a pronounced acidity – perfect for seafood pairing.
• Viognier: While not as widely planted, Viognier shines in Languedoc-Roussillon with its aromatic profile of apricot, peach, and floral notes.
Characteristic Styles of Languedoc-Roussillon Wines
Languedoc-Roussillon’s wines are as varied as its landscape. From robust, tannic reds to crisp, mineral whites and refreshing rosés, the region offers something for every palate.
Red Wines
The reds of Languedoc-Roussillon are often full-bodied and bold, with flavors that range from dark fruits like blackberry and plum to spicier notes of black pepper, garrigue (the wild herbs of the Mediterranean), and sometimes a touch of leather or earthy undertones.
• Notable Example: Villa Ferrae Magnum Corbières Boutenac Red Château Maylandie – This superb red wine from the Languedoc area, particularly from Corbières, is composed of Carignan, Grenache, and Syrah. It boasts a beautiful dark color and offers aromatic complexity with spicy, fruity, and oaked notes. It is full-bodied with soft tannins and a superb spicy finish. This wine pairs excellently with Provençal dishes, beef, and game.
White Wines
Languedoc-Roussillon’s whites are typically crisp and refreshing, with flavors that include citrus, green apple, and sometimes a hint of minerality. These wines are perfect for warm weather and pair beautifully with seafood.
• Notable Example: Organic White Faugeres Cuvée Impertinent Chateau des Estanilles – This organic white from Château des Estanilles is a blend of Marsanne and Roussanne. It offers a generous, complex, and persistent palate, with minerality that pairs perfectly with noble fish and scallops.
Rosé Wines
Rosé wines from Languedoc-Roussillon are typically light, fresh, and fruity, making them perfect for summer sipping. These wines are often made from a blend of grapes, including Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, which contribute to their vibrant flavor profile.
• Notable Example: Miss Anaïs Gris Rosé – This rosé wine from the Pays d’Oc region is a delightful and refreshing option, ideal for casual drinking or pairing with light summer dishes.
Sparkling Wines
The region is also known for its sparkling wines, particularly Crémant de Limoux, which is made using the traditional method and offers a more affordable alternative to Champagne.
• Notable Example: Crémant de LIMOUX Grande CUVEE 1531 Brut by Sieur d'Arques – Named after the year the méthode traditionnelle was discovered, this Crémant offers a beautiful pale golden color, with notes of green apple, Williams pear, and hints of honey. The palate is lively and fresh, with finesse that makes it perfect for celebratory occasions.
Pairing Languedoc Wines with Food
Pairing wine with food is an art, and Languedoc-Roussillon wines provide a versatile range of options to enhance your dining experience.
Red Wines with Hearty Dishes
The full-bodied reds of Languedoc-Roussillon, with their rich fruit and spicy notes, pair beautifully with robust dishes like grilled meats, stews, and game. For example, a Minervois or Corbières is an excellent match for a hearty beef stew or roast lamb.
• Notable Example: Clos des Vins d'Amour Red Organic Maury Wine – This organic red wine from Maury in the Roussillon region is perfect for pairing with strong-flavored dishes like beef stew or roasted meats. Explore Here
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White Wines with Seafood
The crisp acidity of Picpoul de Pinet makes it an ideal companion for oysters, mussels, and other seafood dishes. Its citrusy freshness cuts through the brininess of the shellfish, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Rosé Wines with Summer Salads and Light Dishes
Rosé wines, with their light and fruity profile, are perfect for pairing with summer salads, grilled vegetables, and light pasta dishes. They also work well with Mediterranean-style dishes, complementing the flavors without overpowering them.
Sparkling Wines with Celebration Foods
Crémant de Limoux is a versatile sparkling wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods, from appetizers like smoked salmon to desserts like fruit tarts. Its effervescence and fresh flavor profile make it a delightful addition to any celebration.
The Vins of Roussillon: A Sunny Southern Treasure
The wines of Roussillon, located at the southernmost part of the Languedoc, encompass a region defined by its proximity to Spain and the Mediterranean. Roussillon is known for its sunny, dry climate, which is perfect for producing wines with rich, concentrated flavors
Appellations of Roussillon
Roussillon boasts 13 appellations, each with its own distinct character. These wines are often influenced by the region’s unique climate – a hot, dry Mediterranean climate tempered by the proximity to the Pyrenees and the cooling Tramontane winds. The result is wines with intense flavor profiles, perfect for those who enjoy robust, sun-kissed wines.
• Notable Appellations: Among the most famous are Banyuls, Maury, and Tautavel, which produce wines that are not only rich and powerful but also capable of aging beautifully.
Notable Roussillon Wines at Calais Vins
At Calais Vins, we are particularly proud to offer wines from some of the most esteemed producers in Roussillon, including the Parcé brothers at Rectorie and Hervé Bizeul with his renowned Clos des Fées . Other standout producers include Sardat Malet and Mas Amiel, known for their exceptional quality.
• Côtes Catalanes IGP Roussillon Wines:
A selection that showcases the vibrant and powerful reds typical of the region.
• Côtes du Roussillon:
Wines that perfectly embody the rich, full-bodied style of Roussillon.
• Maury Roussillon Wine:
Known for its sweet, fortified wines that offer a luscious, dessert-like quality. https://www.wine-calais.co.uk/1096-maury-roussillon-wine
• Collioure Wines:
From the beautiful fishing port of Collioure, these wines, like Les Elmes Collioure Red, are fruit-forward with woody notes, offering a powerful and complex profile.
The Value Proposition: Quality and Affordability
One of the main reasons for the growing popularity of Languedoc-Roussillon wines is their excellent quality-to-price ratio. These wines often offer the complexity and depth of more famous regions like Bordeaux or Burgundy but at a fraction of the cost. This makes them particularly attractive to savvy wine buyers who are looking for high-quality wines without breaking the bank.
Price Comparisons with UK Market
At Calais Vins, we offer wines that are not only high in quality but also competitive in price compared to the UK high street prices. For instance:
• Château Recougne Supérieur Bordeaux is priced at £10.99 in the UK, but at Calais Vins, you can get it for just €7.90 (or £5.73 after tax refund).
• Champagne Laurent Perrier is another example, available for £44.99 in the UK, but only €41.95 (or £30.47 after tax refund) at Calais Vins.
These significant savings make a visit to Calais Vins not just a delightful experience but also a financially savvy decision.
Exclusive Services for British Wine Lovers at Calais Vins
At Calais Vins, we go beyond just offering a wide selection of wines. We provide a range of exclusive services designed to enhance your shopping experience and make your visit even more rewarding.
VAT Refunds
British customers can benefit from an additional 15% savings by reclaiming VAT on their purchases. Thanks to our partnerships with Global Blue and Skiptax, the process is seamless and straightforward. Simply scan the barcode at the kiosks located at the Eurotunnel terminal or the ferry port in Calais to start your refund process. The refund is typically processed within 3 to 5 working days, making it an easy way to save even more on your wine purchases.
Free Ferry Crossings
We understand that traveling to France for wine shopping is an adventure, but it shouldn’t break the bank. That’s why we offer free ferry trips from Dover to Calais for customers who pre-order €300 or more worth of wine. For those looking for a longer getaway, a pre-order of €700 will unlock a luxurious three-day ferry trip. This offer is a fantastic way to combine a wine shopping experience with a mini vacation in France.
Personalized Wine Shopping Experience
At Calais Vins, we pride ourselves on offering a personalized shopping experience. Our knowledgeable staff is on hand to provide expert advice and help you find the perfect wines to suit your taste and budget. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, we ensure that every visit is informative and enjoyable.
Where to Buy Languedoc-Roussillon Wines
Finding high-quality Languedoc-Roussillon wines has never been easier, thanks to Calais Vins and Olivier Vins. Our stores are stocked with nearly 300 different wines from this region, offering something for every palate and occasion. Whether you prefer to shop in-store or online, you can take advantage of duty-free prices and exclusive offers tailored specifically for our British customers.
Our convenient location just off the A16 motorway, a few minutes from the port of Calais (Calais Vins) and the Eurotunnel terminal (Olivier Vins), makes it easy to stop by and explore our vast selection. Plus, with easy and free parking, your shopping experience is hassle-free from start to finish.
