It is fair to say that my perception of the Languedoc was a little out of date before this tasting.  We know that the Languedoc is a huge area and was at one point a quarter of all french vines and that the varieties include Carignan, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache.  What became clear from Heather Dougherty’s well delivered presentation and tasting was the increase in quality and diversity of styles now being made in the region.   We tasted one sparkling (Blanquette), 2 whites and 4 reds all showing typicity of the varieties and appellations.

Rolle (Vermentino across the border in Italy!) from La Combe Saint-Paul was all stone fruit, pine, with texture on the palate and a crisp dry finish.

A very classy Mourvèdre, Syrah, Grenache from the new AOP (officially recognised in 2014)  Terasses du Larzac was delightful. Juicy red cherry and blackcurrant with a lovely savoury character from the Mourvèdre. Moreish!

Thank you to Heather for being our guest tutor at my wine club and paving the way for more visiting AWE member speakers!  Sharing the love and the wine experience!  Next up Quentin Sadler in October!…..