In the south, the hot, sun-drenched vineyards of the Languedoc and Roussillon wine regions don’t just produce loads of inexpensive wine under the Pays d’Oc umbrella. Some AOCs, such as Corbieres, Minervois and Côtes du Roussillon offer a magic mix of great value, history and fascinating herbal (garrigue) and fruity flavors. In addition to this a new hierarchy has recently been agreed upon for Languedoc appellations Grands Vins de Languedoc and is producing some of the best value fine wines around. In this 5 Star Grands Vins de Languedoc Collection you get to sample 3 of the best.

If you like Côtes du Rhone and the wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape you must give this mix a try!

Collection includes:

2 x Calmel & Joseph Terrasses du Larzac 2017 (France)

Awarded 94/100 Points & 5 Stars: Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Feb 2018

Awarded: Negociants of the Year 2018: La Revue du Vin de France

"It is instantly appealing on the nose showing sweet raspberry, dark plum, vanilla and earthy mushroom characters, leading to a complex and engaging palate that is succulent and beautifully flowing. The wine offers terrific fruit purity together with rich spicy/savoury notes, making it seductively attractive. At its best: now 2023"Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Feb 2018

A classic Languedoc blend of Mourvèdre 50%, Syrah 25%, Grenache 25%. Aged for 12 months in oak barrels (30 % new wood, 40 % barrels used for one vintage, 30% barrels used for two vintages).

2 x Calmel & Joseph Montpeyroux 2015 (France)

Awarded 94/100 points & 5 Stars: Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Feb 2018

"This soothingly delicious red offers Black Doris plum, spiced cherry, tar, black olive and almond characters on the nose, followed by a succulent palate that is fleshy and supple. The wine displays delightfully textural mouthfeel, backed by silky tannins, finishing long and comforting. At its best: now to 2022" Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Feb 2018

A blend of Grenache 30%, Mourvèdre 25%, Syrah 25%,Carignan 20%, aged for 20 months in concrete vats for 90% of the wine and 10% in barrels (previously used for one white wine vintage) for 6 months.

2 x Calmel & Joseph 'Caramany' Côtes du Roussillon Villages 2016 (France)

Awarded 94/100 points & 5 Stars: Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Feb 2018

Awarded Gold Medal: Gilbert & Gaillard

Awarded 91/100 points: Wine Enthusiast Magazine

"It is complex and enticing on the nose showing dark mushroom, warm spice, leather and vanilla characters with sweet berry notes. The palate delivers excellent weight and depth, together with plush mouthfeel and a lingering silky finish. Wonderfully fruited and richly savoury" Sam Kim, Wine Orbit, Feb 2018

"Made from 40% Carignan, 40% Syrah and 20% Grenache, a lovely crushed-mineral sensation leads the nose of this wine, framed by dried blackberry and muddled raspberry fruit aromas as well as glimmers of pressed purple violets, cocoa powder and black tea. A pronounced saline note unfolds in the mouth, which lifts the velvety palate and flavors of snappy red berries, cherries and plums. The finish is long and evolving, with a note of fresh cinnamon that endures" Wine Enthusiast Magazine

A lovely blend of 40% Syrah - 30% Carignan - 30% Grenache Noir then all of the wine is aged for 12 months in barrels used that are one year old.