Cotes Du Roussillon in Brief

Over the weekend we had a good few questions as to where or what is the Cote Du Roussilon, many people were in an inquisitive mood when checking out the great offer on the Domaine de Bisconte Cotes Du Roussillon red, 2 bottles for €25. The following is a brief description of the Cotes Du Roussilon

From the hills of Corbières to the Pyrénées mountains, Roussillon, the region around the city of Perpigian, is the sunniest wine producing region in France. The climate, the history and the traditions of Roussillon make it more similar to Spain than to the rest of the south of France. This is maybe the reason why Roussillon wines are still fighting to find an identity and can often be more modern than other french alternatives. The Cotes du Roussillon produce mainly red wines.

Côtes du Roussillon Villages label is rarer and is only granted to 25 villages along the Agly river, just North of Perpignian. Côtes de Roussillon Villages produces only red wine. They express the most of their sunny terroir than do the Cotes du Roussillon.

Carignan is the most important grape variety in Roussillon, and the normally the largest percentage of the blend will be of this grape. Othe grapes used in the blend are, thelocal grape Lladoner Pelut, Cinsault, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Red wines are generally spicy and medium body, with a good fruitiness.

Domaine de Bisconte Cotes Du Roussillon 2 bottles for €20

40% Syrah, 30% Carignan and 30% Grenache, this wine has spent 12 months in oak. Ripe red fruit leads the way in this wonderfully characterful wine. Medium to full bodied with subtle notes of vanilla and soft tannins. The finish is long, and very elegant.

Domaine Seguela 'Les Candalieres' Cotes du Roussillon Vilages €14.95

Domaine Seguela is one of the top Roussillon producers and this wine is a great example of why. Made using 60% Carignan, 20% Grenache and 20% Syrah, this wine is pure aromatic and juicy. Quite rounded with good tannins and a delectable long lasting finish.