Fascinating facts for #LanguedocDay | Examiner.com
7/2/16, 1:33 PM
LEISURE / FOOD & DRINK / DRINKS See also: wine, wine tourism, france
Fascinating facts for #LanguedocDay May 26, 2016 6:07 PM MST
Chateau Cabezac in the Minervois region welcomes wine lovers with warm hospitality http://www.chateaucabezac.com/en H. Larson
The French wine region of the Languedoc is home to an incredibly diverse, and delicious, array of quality wines at accessible prices. To celebrate #LanguedocDay 2016, here are a few interesting facts and stories – all of which pair perfectly with a glass of your favorite Languedoc wine! The wine growing region of the http://www.examiner.com/article/fascinating-facts-for-languedocday?cid=db_articles
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Fascinating facts for #LanguedocDay | Examiner.com
7/2/16, 1:33 PM
Languedoc is found in Southern France and bordered by the the city of Nimes on the eastern border, the historic medieval town of Carcassonne to the west, the Cèvennes Mountains to the north and the majestic Pyrenees range on the southern boundary. Not to mention the beautiful beaches along the coastline of the glorious, blue Mediterranean Sea!
The vineyards area of the Languedoc is large, equal to 30% of the vineyard area of France and larger than those of Australia, and all of California.
Wind is a big deal when it comes to growing perfect wine grapes in the Languedoc. There are eight different, named types of wind – each with its own characteristics and origin. The most famous is the Tramontane – a cold, bold fellow that blows from the north or the northeast. It has a drying effect on the vineyards, reducing the chances of mildew and brings clear, sunny weather in its wake.
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Fascinating facts for #LanguedocDay | Examiner.com
7/2/16, 1:33 PM
Ever encounter the word ‘Garrigue’ when you reading tasting notes on the wines of Southern France? In the Languedoc, Garrique has several meanings: limestone soil (so low in nutrients only grape vines and scrub will grow on it), the herby, scrub vegetation (that many wine lovers believe influences the flavors of the regional wines) and the aromas that emanate from these plants (think Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Fennel and Lavender).
The Languedoc is home to a large number of grape varieties – 56 in total – many of which will be familiar: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Malbec, Grenache, Chardonnay, Muscat of Alexandria, Pinot Gris, and Sauvignon Blanc. But why not be adventurous and seek out the lesser known, but very tasty Carmenère, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Bourboulenc, or Mauzac?
When it comes to Organic viticulture, the Languedoc is home to the most certified http://www.examiner.com/article/fascinating-facts-for-languedocday?cid=db_articles
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Fascinating facts for #LanguedocDay | Examiner.com
7/2/16, 1:33 PM
organic producers in France (1,245) and the biggest organic vineyard area (49,992 acres).
Bubbles are big in the Languedoc. The region of Limoux is said to be the original home to the ‘Champagne’ or ‘traditional’ method of sparkling wine production. Legend says that famous monk Dom Perignon, who is credited with the process, actually discovered it while visiting the Abbey of Saint Hilaire in the Languedoc where they’d been making the bubbly wine since 1531.
The medieval city of Carcassonne is a must see destination in the Languedoc. Walt Disney found inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty’s Castle while visiting and staying inside the walls of the turreted city.
Discover more: http://languedocadventure.com/
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Fascinating facts for #LanguedocDay | Examiner.com
7/2/16, 1:33 PM
Hilarie Larson
San Diego Wine Travel Examiner
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