In the depths of winter there can be few more comforting things than a glass of warming red over dinner. My preference for lighter wines disappears and I begin to look for 14% or more on the label. These wines will go nicely with rich hearty stews or grilled red meats.
One region I invariably seek out is the Languedoc, or Languedoc-Roussillon, a huge area stretching from the Spanish border with France almost to the river Rhône. There are 30,000 growers and 300 co-ops. The region produces more wine than the whole of Australia. From the flat coastline to high up in the mountains, it has a huge variety of soils and microclimates. Every kind of wine is made using an array of different grape varieties. There is no shortage of cheap uninspiring wines, but there are plenty of gems too. For me, it is the Languedoc reds, made from the local grape varieties such as grenache, cinsault, carignan, mourvèdre and syrah, that are the real stars. Many wines are blends of the above.
The Languedoc is divided into more than 20 Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée, with the AOC Languedoc covering much of the region. Given the size of the area, it is not surprising that there are bargains to be had. This week I offer four wines from different subregions of the Languedoc, each made from traditional blends. All four offer great value for money.
Château Cazal Viel Vieilles Vignes, Saint Chinian
14.5%, €12.50
Lifted floral aromas, masses of rich, supple and rounded ripe fruits with hints of spice and smooth tannins on the finish. Try it with a beef casserole, bean stews or roast red meats.
READ MORE
From Dunnes Stores
Château de Jau 2022, Côte du Roussillon, Organic
14.5%, €14.99 (down from €19.95)
Sumptuous and powerful with meaty ripe dark cherries, plums, leather and liquorice. Enjoy alongside equally substantial food.
From O’Briens
Jones Old Vine Vineyard Collection Fitou 2023
14%, €19.13
A delicious medium- to full-bodied wine with generous sweet ripe dark fruits, thyme and well-integrated smooth tannins. Exceptional value at less than €20.
From WineSpark.com
Mala Coste Domaine la Dourbie 2019, AOC Languedoc, Biodynamic
14%, €26.95
A blend of cinsault, mourvèdre, and grenache, this has real interest and style. Fresh and lively with herby dark fruits and light tannins on the finish.
From Mitchell & Son, Glasthule, Co Dublin and Hatch Street, Dublin 2, Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow and Dunboyne, Co Meath, Mitchellandson.com
