Languedoc wines go 'Grand'

A new hierarchy for Languedoc appellations has been confirmed with two new tiers forming a pyramid structure for the region. The new tiers will sit above AOC Languedoc wines and will be known as the Grands Vins du Languedoc and Grands Crus du Languedoc. Existing appellations have been categorised into the new tiers in a bid to raise the profile of quality wines from the region. Each category will have strict appellation rules to control the quality and the quantity of wine produced as well as promotional programs to boost sales.

The Grands Vins du Languedoc are: Minervois, Corbières, Saint Chinian, Limoux Sparkling wines, Malepère, Faugères, Cabardès, Muscats and part of the Terroirs des Coteaux du Languedoc including Picpoul de Pinet.

The Grands Crus du Languedoc are: Minervois La Livinière, Corbières Boutenac, Saint Chinian Roquebrun, Terrasses du Larzac, Grès de Montpellier, Pic Saint Loup, Pézenas, La Clape and still wines from Limoux.