On the 4th anniversary of establishing the Sud de France brand, live webcast tastings were held in 24 cities around the world. Selection of 5 regional wines were chosen from 430 entries and served blind to participants. Winemakers and Tasters were brought together on the web live to taste and discuss the selections.

I was lucky enough to participant in the London tasting and here are my impressions of the wines….

Wine One- Sieur d’Arques Crémant de Limoux Grand Cuvee 1531

Pale lemon with frothy mousse and persistent bubbles. Aromas smoke mingled with lemon sorbet, green apple. Vibrant acidity with creamy mouth feel with loads of green apples, citrus.

Refreshing fizz, great value for money. 70% chardonnay, 20% chenin blanc and 10% mauzac with 24months on the lees.

Wine Two- 2008 Cigalus Vin de Pays d’Oc, Gerard Bertrand

Pale golden colour with nose of honey, peaches and crushed almonds. Very dry, rich texture with crisp acidity, more stone fruit, stewed apples and quince with a lingering grassy and touch of minerality on the finish.

Austere and serious food wine which will last in the cellar for a number of years. Mainly Chardonnay with Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc. Unusual blend with the sauvignon giving that stony finish. Grapes sourced from Corbières region, with both chardonnay and viognier in barrel for 5-6 months giving the savoury texture to the wine.

Wine Three- 2009 Fruité Catalan AOC Côtes du Roussillon,
Vigneron de Catalan

Lovely bright pink colour with fragrant aromas of red fruit mainly strawberries, red cherries and a whiff of jasmine. Juicy red fruit, fresh acidity hint of aniseed in the background.

Fresh, lively and perfect for the summer. Mainly syrah with Grenache and Carignan made with partial saignée and pressed wine.

Wine Four- 2006 Dromadaire 30670 Vin de Pays ‘Oc

Deep ruby hue with nose of white pepper, black fruit and bacon. Gripping tannins, crisp acidity with earthy, charred flavours mingled with ripe black cherries and finishing with notes of fennel.

Savoury wine very typical of the region with that defining herbal note. No oak used, 60% Syrah and 40% Grenache with both varietals coming through. Each fermented separately and then blended.

Wine Five- 2006 Mas de Madame, AOC Muscat de Frontignan

Pale colour with pungent aromas of orange blossom, tangerine, honey and peaches. Delicate body, sweet and fragrant with more tropical fruit. Spirit well integrated.

From one of the largest growers of Muscat in the region, 2006 first vintage from the winery and a fantastic debut. Pretty wine that captures the essence of Muscat.

Final Thoughts

Great tasting and good selection of wines- only wish there were more to taste!!