Languedoc & Southern France

This region includes the western Mediterranean coast of France, streching from the Rhone valley in the east to the Spanish borderin the south-west. The majority of the region lies along the Mediterranean coast. While 'Languedoc' cn refer to a specific historic region of France and Northern Catalonia, usage since the 20th century (especially in the context of wine) has primarily referred to the northern part of the Languedoc-Roussillon région of France. The area has around 700,000 acres (2,800 km2) under vines and is the single biggest wine producing region in the world, being responsible for almost 1/3 of France's wine production. It is home to numerous grape varieties including inernational ones like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, but traditional Rhône grqpes of?ourvedre; Grenqche qnd Syrqh qre prominent, along with Carignan and Cinsault. Some of the more recognised areas include Corbiéres, Faugéres, Fitou, and Minervois AOCs. The Languedoc-Rousillon area is home to numerous grape varieties, including many international varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Viogner which are increasing their foothold in the region. Chardonnay is the major white grape, used in the Vin de Pays d'Oc and the sparkling Crémant de Limoux. Others include Chenin Blanc and Mauzac, which is also the principal grape in the sparkling Blanquette de Limoux. The sweet fortified wines of the Muscat de Rivesaltes AOC, fortified wines are made from Muscat of Alexandria grapes. Other varieties that can be found include Roussanne, Marsanne, Vermentino, Bourboulenc, Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Grenache gris, Picpoul Maccabéo and Rolle.