Languedoc-Roussillon (France)

Discover the Wine Wonderland of Languedoc-Roussillon

Languedoc-Roussillon, a sun-drenched region in southern France, offers an unparalleled wine experience. This expansive area boasts diverse terroirs, producing a wide range of wines from crisp whites to robust reds.

Towns and Villages

Explore charming towns steeped in wine history:

• Carcassonne: A medieval citadel with stunning vineyards nearby
• Béziers: Home to the Feria de Béziers wine festival
• Perpignan: Gateway to Roussillon’s wine country
• Limoux: Birthplace of sparkling wine

Don’t miss the picturesque village of Minerve, surrounded by Minervois vineyards, or Collioure, known for its sweet wines and artistic heritage.

Wine Producers

Visit these notable wineries for tastings and tours:

• Gérard Bertrand: Biodynamic wines in Narbonne
• Mas de Daumas Gassac: “Grand Cru of the Languedoc” in Aniane
• Domaine de la Grange des Pères: Cult wines near Aniane
• Château de l’Ou: Organic wines in Roussillon

Book tours in advance, especially during peak season. Many wineries offer unique experiences like blending workshops or vineyard picnics.

Accommodations

Stay at wine-themed lodgings for a full immersion:

• Château l’Hospitalet: Luxury rooms amid vineyards near Narbonne
• Domaine de Verchant: Five-star hotel with its own winery in Montpellier
• La Maison d’Olivier Leflaive: Boutique hotel in Puligny-Montrachet

For budget options, consider gîtes (holiday cottages) in wine villages or agriturismos on working vineyards.

Dining

Savor local cuisine paired with regional wines:

• La Table de Franck Putelat: Two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Carcassonne
• L’Almandin: Seafood and Roussillon wines in Saint-Cyprien
• Le Parc: Gastronomic delights in Carcassonne

Try local specialties like cassoulet in Carcassonne or bourride (fish stew) in coastal towns. Many restaurants offer extensive local wine lists.

Wine Shops & Bars

Explore these wine-centric establishments:

• La Maison du Vin in Carcassonne: Extensive selection of local wines
• Le Wine Bar in Montpellier: Cozy spot with knowledgeable sommeliers
• La Cave du Faubourg in Narbonne: Offers rare and limited-edition bottles

Many shops offer shipping services for your favorite discoveries. Ask about tasting events or wine classes for a deeper understanding of regional varieties.

Other Shops

Pick up local specialties and souvenirs:

• Les Halles de Narbonne: Indoor market for regional products
• Olivier Bajard in Perpignan: Award-winning chocolatier and patisserie
• La Ferme in Carcassonne: Gourmet shop featuring local cheeses and charcuterie

Look for olive oils, honey, and artisanal crafts as perfect wine companions or gifts.

Attractions

Blend wine experiences with cultural visits:

• Pont du Gard: Ancient Roman aqueduct near Nîmes
• Abbaye de Fontfroide: 11th-century monastery with beautiful gardens
• Château de Peyrepertuse: Cathar castle with panoramic views

Many attractions offer wine tastings or are near notable vineyards. Combine sightseeing with wine discovery for a richer experience.

Events

Time your visit with these wine-focused events:

• Fête de la Vigne et du Vin (May): Wineries across the region open their doors
• Les Estivales de Montpellier (July-August): Weekly wine and food festival
• Fête du Vin Nouveau et de la Châtaigne (October): New wine and chestnut festival in Eus

Check local tourist offices for smaller, village-specific wine festivals throughout the year.

Appellations

Familiarize yourself with key wine regions:

• Corbières: Known for robust reds
• Minervois: Produces elegant reds and whites
• Pic Saint-Loup: High-altitude vineyards yielding distinctive wines
• Limoux: Famous for sparkling wines

Each appellation offers unique tasting experiences. Consider focusing on one or two areas for in-depth exploration.

Grape Varieties

Languedoc-Roussillon boasts a diverse array of grape varieties. Red grapes dominate, including Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Carignan.

White varieties include Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Picpoul. The region also cultivates international varieties like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Main Wine Styles

The region produces a wide range of wine styles. Full-bodied reds are common, often blending Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.

Crisp whites from Picpoul de Pinet and sparkling wines from Limoux offer refreshing alternatives. The region also produces excellent rosés and fortified sweet wines.

Food Specialties

Languedoc-Roussillon’s cuisine reflects its Mediterranean climate and coastal location. Seafood dishes like bouillabaisse and oysters from Bouzigues are local favorites.

Cassoulet, a hearty bean and meat stew, is a regional staple. Don’t miss the olive oils from Nîmes or the truffles from Uzès.

Drives & Walks

Explore the picturesque Corbières wine route, winding through rugged landscapes and charming villages. The Minervois wine trail offers stunning views of vineyards and ancient castles.

For nature lovers, the Cévennes National Park provides excellent hiking opportunities. Coastal walks along the Vermillion Coast offer breathtaking Mediterranean vistas.

Itineraries

3-Day Wine Tour

• Day 1: Explore Montpellier and nearby Pic Saint-Loup wineries
• Day 2: Visit Carcassonne and tour Limoux sparkling wine producers
• Day 3: Discover Perpignan and the Roussillon wine region

Week-long Adventure

• Days 1-2: Nîmes and Uzès, exploring Roman history and local wines
• Days 3-4: Carcassonne and the Corbières wine route
• Days 5-6: Coastal tour from Sète to Collioure, enjoying seafood and wines
• Day 7: Montpellier for shopping and final wine tastings

Getting There & Around

Languedoc-Roussillon is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport serves as the main gateway, with connections to major European cities.

Renting a car is ideal for exploring the region’s diverse wine areas. The A9 motorway connects major cities, while scenic routes like the D914 offer picturesque coastal drives.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) are perfect for wine touring. Enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds during these shoulder seasons.

Summer (July-August) brings vibrant festivals but also crowds and heat. Winter (November-March) offers quiet exploration and truffle hunting opportunities.

Sustainability Efforts

Many Languedoc-Roussillon wineries are embracing organic and biodynamic practices. Look for certifications like AB (Agriculture Biologique) on wine labels.

The region promotes eco-tourism, with initiatives like electric bike rentals for vineyard tours and solar-powered wineries.

Language Tips

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning basic French phrases enhances your experience. Key wine terms include:

• Dégustation – Wine tasting
• Millésime – Vintage
• Santé – Cheers

Further Resources

For in-depth wine information, visit the Languedoc Wines official website. It offers detailed appellation guides and producer listings.

Download the “Languedoc Wines” mobile app for a portable guide to the region’s wineries and tasting rooms.