WineLife365

Most of us are familiar with the phrase, “The more things change, the more they stay the same.”  Well, after nearly 7 long months that included a first-ever World Cup win for Spain and a tremendous effort by the San Francisco Giants to win their first World Series title since 1954, I’m here to tell you that all is well and kickin’ in the land located in the south east of France, that is bound by the Mediterranean Sea to the east and the Pyrenees Mountains in the south that form the natural border between France and Spain.

Languedoc, France, yet again, is showcasing some of the most distinguished value-wines that I’ve had the pleasure of tasting so far in 2010.  The last time that I was waving my rally towel for the Languedoc region was back on March 19^th, 2010.  And guess what?!  Not much has changed – except for the vintage dates on the bottles.  This French wine region continues to be more than just a getaway destination for topless bathing or for sightseeing all of the historical and architectural interests that the Languedoc region has to offer.  The Languedoc still boasts hundreds of small producers that are producing a variety of wines with the use of different grapes like Cinsault, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Merlot, Mourvedre, Syrah and Viognier to name a few.  But the really cool thing about wines from the Languedoc is that most of these tiny producers still make wine in the Old World way – but with a dash of New World style, which allows these wines to showcase their distinctive characteristics and gives them a true sense of home.  And the best part – you can experience many of these unique and wonderful wines for less than 15 US dollars even  – with the current Euro / US Dollar exchange rate.

Here are two Languedoc values that I’ve been just plain old gaga over since first tasting them – they continue to be WL365 “house wine” favorites.

• 2009 Cave de Pomerols Picpoul de Pinet HB (<$10 US, WL365 “Honor Roll”) – I discovered this Languedoc gem a few vintages ago, and yet again – it’s a mainstay in our fridge.  It’s got all the right moves:  pinpoint acidity derived from a shot of grapefruit, lime and pineapple with a honey-suckle finish that makes it extremely food-friendly – from simple grilled pork chops to even Tex-Mex.  For less than 10 bucks a bottle (in most parts of the US), this crisp and versatile white wine is a great choice for upcoming holiday gatherings.

•  2009 Château La Clotte-Fontane “Mathierou” (<$12 US) – This is a new house favorite.  I bought boat loads earlier this year of the 2004 Château La Clotte-Fontane “Cremailh,” and now the 2009 “Mathierou,” consisting of 60% Grenache and 40% Syrah has also made its way onto the Love Boat.  The 2009 Château La Clotte-Fontane “Mathierou” dazzles with elegant notes of black pepper, licorice, and cinnamon spice that complements its rich red berry flavors perfectly.  The wonderful integration of sweet spices and peppery notes from start to finish makes the 2009 “Mathierou” an ideal match for traditional stuffed Thanksgiving turkey with all the dressings .

4 Stars out of 4 for both the 2009 Cave de Pomerols Picpoul de Pinet HB and the 2009 Château La Clotte-Fontane “Mathierou.”  Who said sequels are never as good?