Contents
Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages is an AOC red wine produced in the Agly valley in the Roussillon wine-growing region. The vineyard encompasses 32 villages, but 5 other villages (Tautavel, Lesuquerde, Caramany, Latour-de-France, Les Aspres) located on typical terroirs benefit from a PDO allowing them to add their name to the denomination of their wines.
History of the Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages appellation
The Roussillon plain has been producing wine since the 7th century BC, when the Phocaeans settled in the region. In 1906, many centuries later, the harvest was disastrous and the price of wine plummeted. The winegrowers were then faced with financial difficulties, so much so that they were no longer able to pay their taxes.
A first revolt exploded in 1907 in the village of Baixas due to the intervention of bailiffs. Several events followed, various AOCs were granted and in 1977 the Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages appellation was officially created. The quality of these wines is recognized as superior to that of the Côtes-du-Roussillon appellation.
Terroir and vineyards of AOC Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages
The AOC Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages vineyard covers an area of around 2,200 ha. Its vines are grown on limestone slopes, black and brown schist soils, as well as Precambrian gneiss and granite soils. It lies between 100 and 400 meters above sea level and enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year. Its yield is limited to 45 hl/ha. The Languedoc-Roussillon region itself enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers, mild winters and wet springs and autumns.
At least three of the following grape varieties must be included in the blend of a Côtes-du-Roussillon-Village: mourvèdre, carignan, syrah, grenache noir or poilu, cinsault, macabeu and lledoner pelut.
Tasting guide and Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages characteristics
Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages is a complex, powerful red wine of character that fully expresses the Languedoc terroir. It also has a deep red to purple color.
Its nose is pleasant and powerful. It exudes the fruity fragrance of blackberry, raspberry and cherry. After aeration, the aroma of old-boy jam and hints of spice come through. The subtle scent of juniper berries, vanilla and a toasty note are also perceptible.
The palate is deep, with an elegant attack that reveals spicy aromas and the flavor of blackberries. This wine also appeals because of the perfect balance between its delicate tannins, freshness and roundness.
It improves with age, with an aging potential of between 3 and 10 years. At the end of this time, its color will take on tile hues.
Discover the best Côtes du Roussillon Villages estates.
What dish to serve with a Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages for a successful food and wine pairing?
Côtes-du-Roussillon-Villages can be served as an aperitif. It also goes well with a wide variety of dishes, salads and cheeses. It should be served between 14 and 16°C.
It goes well with game, grilled rib steaks and Indian lamb dishes. This wine also enhances Mexican salad, pot-au-feu, blood sausage, lobster, quail and duck specialties.
Among the cheeses it perfectly enhances are Maroilles, Deauville, Cantal and Cendré de Vergy.
Photo : Adobe Stock / Laure F
