AOC Languedoc

Appellation area

The appellation Coteaux du Languedoc was replaced on May 2007 by the AOC Languedoc which streches along the Mediterranean cost, from the Spanish frontier to Nimes, on the foothills of the Montagne Noire and the Cévennes.

Geology

Very diverse constituted of Limestone Mountains and slate soils with also gravelly soil due to rivers of Languedoc.

Climate

The characteristic of this Mediterranean climate, common to the entire appellation is marked by a hot and dry season which is tempered by the relief. The diversity and the specificities of the different regions have allowed the definition of major climatic zones.

Grapes

  • Principal grapes for the red and the rosé: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (50% minimum and 20% minimum Syrah Mourvèdre) Cinsault et Carignan.
  • For the Pic St Loup: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre (90 % minimum).
  • For the Clape and the Grés de Montpellier: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre (70% minimum).

Vinification

  • Red: traditional fermentation carbonic maceration
  • Rosé: by saignée
  • White: direct pressing

Key figures

  • 10 000 ha classed
  • 2 000 producers
  • 80 cooperative wineries
  • 450 particular wineries

Basic yield

47 hl (78% red, 10% rosé, 12% white)

Sales

  • General Distribution: 72 000 hl (22%)
  • Export: 145 500 hl (43%)
  • Storehouse outputs (60%)