(Originally published August 2007)

For years, if not centuries, France’s Languedoc wine region was known for its vast, flat vineyards and the massive quantities of thin, ordinary wine that came from them.

Today, it is still France’s most prolific wine producing region in terms of volume of wine produced, but the quality has taken a rather dramatic turn for the better. And since Languedoc wines remain some of the best French values around, they are well worth exploring!

A few basics on the Languedoc:
Pronunciation: Lahn-geh-dawk

Location: Along the Mediterranean coast at the south of France

Vineyards: Mostly flat and coastal on alluvial plains; although a small percentage are planted on foothills farther inland, sometimes at extreme angles and in gravel and limestone soils

Wine: Principally red wine in the Languedoc, with only a few whites (coming mostly from the neighboring Roussillon region) and rosés

Varieties: Carignan has been, and remains, the dominant grape, but also Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvedre, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon

Important sub-appellations (words to look for on the label): Coteaux du Languedoc, Minervois, Corbieres. Also, a handful of producers are forsaking the Languedoc label and making impressive, high-end Vin de Pays with New World varietals.

Flavor profile: Generally, the reds are becoming more dense and smooth than in years past, with herb/dried herb notes that range from pleasant to overwhelming. Whites and rosés tend to be simple and refreshing, though there are more good whites coming out of the area every year.

Price range: Outstanding wines in the $35-range. Some quite nice everyday reds in the under-$15 range, but with more variation in quality.

Here are a few Languedoc wines we’ve recently enjoyed:

RED:
Chateau Maris 2004 Syrah Minervois La Livinière La Touge ($19). Absolutely delicious, with Rhone-like concentration to the black currant and berry flavors, black pepper and bittersweet chocolate notes and long, focused finish. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years.

Chateau Maris 2004 Syrah Minervois La Liviniere Old Vine ($28). Ripe, opulent cassis and blueberry fruit is laced with mocha, espresso and brown spices, with a long finish and balancing acidity. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years.

Chateau Maris 2004 Grenache Minervois La Liviniere Old Vine ($28). Juicy red berry and plum flavors are accented with plenty of fresh herbs and a touch of mocha. Stays focused through the mouthwatering finish. Ready to drink now.

Domaine de Nizas 2003 Coteaux du Languedoc ($17). Appealing earthy notes underlie the focused black plum and currant fruit, picking up smoky, roasted herbs through the long finish. Ready to drink now.

Domaine de Nizas 2004 Vin de Pays d’Oc Reserve ($35). A wonderful example of the new face “Vin de Pays” out of the the Languedoc, this offers deep black currant, blackberry, espresso, licorice and a touch of game on a smooth, supple frame. A blend of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Long, lush, focused finish. Delicious now and over the next four or five years.

Domaine Ligneres 2002 Corbieres Notre Dame ($30). Concentrated plum and currant flavors offer plenty of zip, with warm spicy notes that carry through the long finish. 100% Syrah. Ready to drink now and over the next three or four years. (Weekend Wine 04/07)

ROSÉ:
Domaine de Nizas 2006 Rosé Coteaux du Languedoc ($16). Pretty red berry aromas and flavors are laced with mineral and almond notes that linger on the crisp, fresh finish. Ready to drink now.

WHITE:
Domaine Ligneres 2002 Corbieres Las Vals Blanc ($20). Rich and full-bodied, with ripe apple and baking spice aromas and flavors that pick up touches of citrus zest, hazelnut and anise through the generous finish. A blend of Roussanne (70%) and Grenache Gris (30%). Ready to drink now. (Weekend Wine 04/07)