IGP Pays d'OC

History of the IGP Pays d'Oc

The Protected Geographical Indication IGP Pays d'Oc is one of the largest and most recognized appellations in the south of France. Created in 1987, the IGP Pays d'Oc covers a large part of the Languedoc-Roussillon region, offering an immense diversity of terroirs and wine styles. This appellation has played a crucial role in the renaissance and modernization of viticulture in this region, by encouraging innovation and the creative freedom of winemakers. It allows the production of wines from a variety of grape varieties, meeting a growing demand for modern and accessible wines while respecting the identity of the Languedoc terroir.

Climate and terroir of the IGP Pays d'Oc

Climate: Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, the Languedoc region benefits from generous sunshine throughout the year. Rainfall is generally low, concentrated in autumn and winter, and the north wind, the Tramontane, helps to purify the vines by limiting humidity.

Soils: extremely varied terroir, reflecting the geographical diversity of the Languedoc. The soils are mainly composed of clay-limestone soils, schists, rolled pebbles and sands, allowing each grape variety to express itself fully.

The grape varieties of the IGP Pays d'Oc

The IGP Pays d'Oc is distinguished by the wide range of grape varieties it authorises, which makes it one of the most flexible and creative appellations in France. Red grape varieties include international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, as well as local varieties like Grenache and Carignan. White grape varieties include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, as well as local varieties like Marsanne and Roussanne. Rosés are often made from red grape varieties like Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah.

IGP Pays d'Oc Wine Style

Red Wine: IGP Pays d'Oc red wines are characterized by their diversity and aromatic richness. They generally have a deep red color. The nose reveals aromas of black fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry), spices, and garrigue. On the palate, the reds are often round and fruity, with supple tannins and a nice length.

Rosé Wine: IGP Pays d'Oc rosé wines have a pale pink color with a slight salmon hue. The nose is fresh and fruity, with aromas of small red fruits (strawberry, raspberry) and sometimes floral notes. On the palate, the rosés are light, lively and thirst-quenching, offering a pleasant freshness and a persistent finish. These are ideal wines for convivial moments and summer aperitifs.

White wine: The white wines of the IGP Pays d'Oc offer a beautiful aromatic palette, with a pale yellow color with green highlights. The nose can reveal aromas of citrus fruits, white-fleshed fruits (peach, pear), and floral notes. On the palate, the whites are fresh, balanced, with good acidity that gives them a beautiful liveliness. They can be dry, semi-dry or even sweet, thus offering a wide variety of styles to satisfy all palates.

The best food and wine pairings with an IGP Pays d’Oc wine

Follow our advice to create the best food and wine pairings with a bottle of Languedoc wine, from an estate or château in IGP Pays d’Oc red, white or rosé:

White wine: cod brandade, mussels marinière style, tielles sétoises

Rosé wine: pistou soup, pizza

Red wine: marinated pork ribs, barbecued chipolatas and merguez sausages, braised chicken