In the south of France, the sun-drenched vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon stretch over 240,000 hectares from Nîmes to Leucate (Aude), making it one of the largest vineyards in the world. The AOC Languedoc - Pic Saint Loup covers 17 communes at the foot of the Cévennes mountains, on some 1,300 hectares of limestone, marl and scree soils. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Syrah vines are planted in the appellation's Mediterranean climate, producing red and rosé wines. The latter are fresh, round on the palate and highly aromatic, with spicy notes. The reds are structured by tannins, but just as fresh and round as the rosés. These wines, which express aromas of black and red fruits, licorice, spices, roasting and violets among others, can be kept for 4 to 8 years.
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AOC Languedoc Pic Saint Loup: Everything You Need to Know About This Appellation
History of the AOC Languedoc Pic Saint Loup
The Pic Saint Loup, a majestic mountain in the Languedoc, dominates a vineyard with viticultural traditions dating back to Roman times. Over the centuries, this exceptional terroir has become one of the flagship appellations of the Languedoc, gaining renown for its elegant and expressive red and rosé wines. In 2017, the AOC Languedoc Pic Saint Loup was officially established, showcasing the exceptional qualities of this terroir.
Climate and Terroir of the AOC Languedoc Pic Saint Loup
- Climate: The Pic Saint Loup vineyard enjoys a Mediterranean climate, moderated by the altitude and the proximity of the Cévennes. The temperature differences between day and night promote the slow and harmonious ripening of the grapes.
- Soils: The soils are characterized by the presence of limestone, rolled pebbles, and clays, which give the wines great finesse and a distinct mineral signature.
Key Grape Varieties of the AOC Languedoc Pic Saint Loup
- Red Wines: The dominant grape varieties are Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, which provide structure, aromatic finesse, and excellent aging potential.
- Rosé Wines: For rosé wines, in addition to Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Carignan are also used, adding freshness and fruity notes.
Style of AOC Languedoc Pic Saint Loup Wines
- Red Wine: The color is a deep ruby red. The nose evokes black fruits, sweet spices, and often notes of garrigue typical of the Languedoc. On the palate, the wine is generous, full-bodied, with a beautiful aromatic persistence.
- Rosé Wine: With a pale pink to salmon color, it reveals a fresh nose of red berries, citrus fruits, and sometimes flowers. On the palate, it is distinguished by its liveliness, roundness, and elegance.
Best Food Pairings with AOC Languedoc Pic Saint Loup Wines
Here are some ideas for the best food pairings with a bottle of wine from the Languedoc, from a domaine or château in AOC Languedoc Pic Saint Loup, both red and rosé:
- Red Wine: Duck breast, Provençal stew, slow-cooked lamb shoulder.
- Rosé Wine: Ideal with summer cuisine, such as a Niçoise salad, grilled fish, tapas, or as an aperitif.