IGP Aude wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

I.G.P.

The Aude appellation covers the entire vineyard of the Aude department, in Languedoc, within the Occitanie region. The vineyard stretches along the length of the Aude river, between the Pyrenean foothills and the edge of the Massif Central, forming a mosaic of terroirs across varied geographical situations. The climate here is Mediterranean. The specifications give producers considerable freedom in grape variety selection, including merlot, cabernet sauvignon, syrah and cinsault for reds, and chardonnay, sauvignon, viognier and vermentino for whites. This diversity of grape varieties and terroirs sets the Aude appellation apart from its Languedoc neighbours, where the range of permitted varieties is often narrower. Nine complementary geographical denominations, including Val de Cesse, Val de Dagne and Coteaux de la Cabrerisse, may also appear on the label.

The wines of this appellation

The Aude appellation produces red, white and rosé wines, with reds accounting for the majority of production. The red wines are marked by elegant, fine-grained tannins and fruit-driven aromatic profiles. The whites and rosés are fresh and lively, made to be enjoyed young. The wide freedom in grape variety selection, combined with the diversity of terroirs across the department, gives rise to a highly varied range of styles and aromatic profiles. The reds, supple and fruity, pair readily with grilled meats, charcuterie and Mediterranean dishes. The whites and rosés, crisp and light, suit fish, shellfish, salads and apéritif moments.