Pays d'Oc

Pays d'Oc PGI wines are produced in Languedoc-Roussillon in four departments bordering the Mediterranean: Pyrénées-Orientales, Aude, Hérault and Gard. Since 1987, Pays d'Oc PGI wines have risen to the challenges of modern and global markets, making the most of their Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) thanks to the qualitative adaptation of their production tools and vineyards.

Between the steep slopes of the Pyrenees, rolling peaks, vineyards, garrigue and the Mediterranean, the Pays d'Oc offers an authentic richness. Enveloped by a Mediterranean climate, vines flourish in this arid land caressed by the winds. The Pays d'Oc PGI appellation covers some 88,000 hectares, authorizing annual production of over 5.5 million hectolitres of wine. Of particular note are the wines of Domaine d'Aigues Belles, Jean Luc Colombo, Domaine Laroche - Mas La Chevalière and Domaine La Madura.

The blends of Pays d'Oc PGI wines are creative, their packaging innovative. They correspond to new trends in taste and lifestyle. A wine from the south of France, born under the Mediterranean sun, IGP Pays d'Oc wines are dressed up in grape varietals, seducing those who prefer the quality of a wine with character, at the best price. With 33 grape varieties, Pays d'Oc PGI wines can be enjoyed on any table, at any time... For reds and rosés, the main grape varieties are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache noir, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Marselan and Petit Verdot. White wines feature Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Viognier, Grenache blanc, Terret blanc, Muscat Petits Grains, Marsanne and Vermentino.

Pays d'Oc used to be known as Vin de Pays d'Oc, which originated in the region's IGP or Indication Géographique Protégée, one of France's major wine-producing regions. This is mainly the vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon, in the southwest of France. Pays d'Oc wines are generally made from white, red and rosé grapes.

Ranked among the finest winemakers in the world, Languedoc winemakers are constantly raising the standard of their products. It's this thirst for evolution that has led Languedoc winemakers to concentrate on producing quality wines. Convinced by the quality and potential of the Languedoc terroirs, these winemakers have produced great wines that are recognized nationwide. They have turned their attention to making wines that reflect the true personality of the region, namely products without heaviness or imbalance, with generous character and taste, not to mention a wealth of aromas.

In principle, the Pays d'Oc vineyards cover 60% of the French production market, i.e. 5.3 million hectolitres. These soils have quite distinctive characteristics, ranging from the Cévennes, to the Languedoc plain, to the Corbières massif. The soils are schistose, clay-limestone with stony sands, producing complex and varied aromas.

With 90,000 hectares of vineyards, 90% of the Pays d'Oc appellation is made up of Languedoc grape varieties. There are currently more than 50 grape varieties available to French, European and, above all, international consumers.

Also known as Sauvignon, Pays d'Oc white wine has deep or pale yellow hues. When this wine is brought to the nose, it gives a hint of citrus, accompanied by aromas of ivy and boxwood. As soon as you taste this wine, it gives a lively attack and a certain freshness.

Pays d'Oc red or Syrah wine has a deep ruby color with a violet sheen. On the nose, it is intense, clean and explosive, with an aroma of ripe black and red fruits such as raspberry and blackcurrant. On the palate, this type of wine gives a supple, powerful yet lively note. This product is distinguished by its aromatic persistence. Many winemakers store this product for up to 5 years to further enhance its flavor. Best served with grilled red meats and cold meats, Pays d'Oc red wine should be served at a temperature of 16°C.

If you've ever seen Pays d'Oc rosé wine, you'll know that it's also called grenache. As its name suggests, it is characterized by its brilliant salmon-pink color. At first sight, you can taste it with your nose and sense its freshness and delicacy. The aromas most strongly associated with Pays d'Oc rosé are redcurrant, strawberry and blackberry. These fruit notes are combined with spices and flowers. On the palate, this wine delivers an exquisite text that is full-bodied, fine and above all, lively. To be enjoyed as an aperitif, this wine should be served at 10°C.