Languedoc-Roussillon

Where it is on a wine map of France

For those seeking good value French red wines, the Languedoc-Roussillon is one of the regions to look out for, although the really good wines can still set you back €20 or £20 in the UK; however, this price is still much less than a well known Bordeaux or Burgundy and there is real value to be had in the under €10/£10 category whether from good brands such as Gerard Bertrand (always reliable) or the small growers. When I first started drinking wine, the wines of this region were known for being cheap plonk and I used to avoid Minervois and Corbieres, whereas now I seek it out; the region has reduced production and increased quality. In our Tongham Village Hall wine tastings it was the first region we did, although we didn’t entirely do it justice as we mixed in with the Sud-Ouest. I was reminded of our holiday when drinking a really nice bottle of Faugeres (Domaine Thibault 2007 Cuvee Jaqueline Javy) last night, hence today’s blog. We were lucky enough to take a holiday in the region during April 2009. We were staying at Steve and Yvonne’s place near Beziers and their directions were “drive out of Beziers and turn right at the prostitute”. Unfortunately, she must have been attending to a client as we drove past, so we got lost! The holiday, luckily took an uphill climb after that and we sampled some lovely wines from the region and really enjoyed the food and countryside. The spectacular nature and greenness of the countryside were a surprise and if you’ve not been here is a taster...

Amongst my favourite appellations are Coteaux du Languedoc La Clape and Minervois la Liviniere. Whilst in the Languedoc the best wine maker we visited was Chateau Mire L'Etang in La Clape - their top of the range red at about €17 was really excellent.  Well worth a visit.   As mentioned in other posts the cooperative at Roquebrun (St Chinian) is normally great value.  Although we didn't get there, the wine of Les Trois Tomates (the three tomatoes) is a great recommendation from Steve. The Cote Sud restaurant in Beziers is very good and another must to try.  If you are a fan of oysters go to Bouzigues.