South Of France Reds Case

A deeply coloured, fruity and balanced Languedoc red, with a savoury finish. Neighbouring Minervois and the city of Carcassonne, Cabardès is unusual in the Languedoc for its choice of grape varieties from Bordeaux as well as more traditional varieties. All thrive in a region where Mediterranean and Atlantic influences combine.

The Filhols have farmed this part of Vire-sur-Lot for generations and have well-exposed vines above the Lot River. This delicious blend of 70% malbec and 30% merlot offers excellent value. Ripe, full and fruity with food-friendly grip on the palate this is perfect with duck or a beefburger kept simple for the tannins to get to grips with.

The Bascou family are farmers who grow grapes and olives in the Languedoc. Several grape varieties are grown, including picpoul as well as reds. Here syrah is blended with a little mourvèdre to create a succulent, soft and fruity red for drinking with or without food.

Grenache is the main red variety in the Roussillon, the warmest province of France. Very versatile, grenache here makes a deliciously full and fruity red which can be served cool.

A pure, rounded merlot that delivers all the pleasure of this friendly grape variety. In 2024 Domaine du Bosc, a member favourite and source of excellent-quality southern French wines for many years, was bought by local winemaker Jérôme Vic. Much needed investment has followed and the wine has never been better.

‘Pencil shavings, pomegrante, pepper, pot-pourri… all the Ps, actually!’ This southern French grenache-syrah blend is certainly popular, and perennially prevailing, reaching our Wine Championship podium for the second year in a row. ‘Vibrant’ and ‘savoury with lovely black fruit’, it’s also offered at a pleasing price!