Languedoc-Roussillon

Languedoc-Roussillon in the south of France stretches from the Rhône valley in the east to the Spanish border in the southwest. It is dominated by 300,000 hectares of vineyards, making it France’s largest wine producing region. It is famous for long hours of sunshine. Each of both regions - Languedoc and Roussillon - has its distinctive characteristics. Languedoc with its high-quality wines and Roussillon for its Vins Doux Naturels.Common red varieties include Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache Noir and Mourvèdre. Common white varieties include Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Chenin Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Piquepoul, Marsanne and Roussanne. It’s all about blends. In the Languedoc, vineyards are often called ‘patchwork’ because so many different grape varieties grow together. Most producers make blends instead of single varietal wines. Red blends from Languedoc Roussillon tend to be more full-bodied and fruit driven.