A.O.C./A.O.P.
the Saint-Chinian appellation area is located north of Béziers in the Hérault department. The area covers 20 towns and villages and its soil types are subdivided into two highly distinct zones: calcareous clay in the south, shale in the north. The climate is typically Mediterranean, hot and dry, and the varietal range, once dominated by Carignan, has changed considerably over the past 25 years : Carignan (40% maximum), Cinsault (30% maximum), Grenache, Lladoner Pelut, Syrah and Mourvedre. Interestingly, the two village sites Roquebrun and Berlou, both on the appellation’s shale soils, have recently been allowed to state their names on the label, alongside that of Saint-Chinian. The white wines (officially recognised in 2005) are primarily made from Grenache blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Vermentino, augmented with Bourboulenc, Clairette, Macabeu and Carignan blanc. They were previously labelled Coteaux du Languedoc.
Grape varieties: Vins rouges et rosés : carignan, cinsaut, grenache, lladoner pelut, syrah, mourvèdre
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88
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the red wines display a ‘cockerel blood’ red hue. On the palate, they are rich, full and velvety, with aromas of red fruit (raspberry, blackcurrant), spices (pepper) and bay, leading into notes of cocoa, roasted coffee, fruit in brandy and jammy red fruit in time. The red wines grown on shale soils are more aromatic and supple, whilst those hailing from the calcareous clay soils are harder and more austere though with greater ageing capacity. Enjoy with game, duck salad or cassoulet. The rosés are fat, harmonious and boast distinctive freshness. Serve with marinated chicken kebabs, paella or a red fruit dessert.
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