Definition: Minervois AOC

Languedoc region. Production area that begins practically at the north-eastern gates of Carcassonne (Villalier being the westernmost town and Montouliers the easternmost) and ends about twenty kilometres west of Béziers, all within 45 municipalities in the department of Aude and 16 in Hérault. Classified as an AOC in 1985. Area under production: nearly 4,300 hectares. Produced as white, rosé and red wines. White grape varieties: Bourboulenc (or Clairette), Grenache, Macabeu, Marsanne, Roussanne and Vermentino (or Rolle); additional grape varieties for a maximum of 20%, Clairette, Muscat à petits grains (maximum 10%), Piquepoul and Terret. These grape varieties may also be used for the production of rosé wines in a proportion of up to 10%; black varieties: Aspiran, Carignan, Cinsaut, Grenache, Lledoner Pelut, Mourvèdre, Piquepoul, Syrah and Terret. Grenache, Lledoner Pelut, Mourvèdre and Syrah must account for a minimum of 60%; Mourvèdre and Syrah must account for a minimum of 10% together or separately, and a minimum of 20% from the 2006 harvest onwards. It can be stored for 2 to 5 years, or longer, depending on the vintage. Ideal serving temperature: between 8 and 10°C for whites and rosés; between 15 and 17°C for reds. Pairing suggestions: white wines with fish or shellfish; red wines with oxtail and carrots, beef medallions with chanterelle mushrooms or game.