Faugeres Languedoc, France 22 Items Follow

Located at the foot of the Cévennes Mountains, which protect it from the cold inland air, the south-facing vineyards of Faugères catch the sun, while its altitude (200 to 400 m) grants cool nights for balanced ripeness of berries. The schist soils (resulting from an ancient sea-bottom) drain quickly and put profitable stress on the vines, making for excellent fruit. In their quest for quality, and to protect their best resource, the vignerons of the region have embraced sustainable, organic and biodynamic viticulture to an extraordinary degree.

Originally approved for reds and rosés in 1982, which continue to dominate its production, the quality of Faugères whites was recognized with AOC status in 2005. The principal red grapes of Carignan, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre (blended in any proportion) produce powerful, structured, herbal wines which embody the savory character of the garrigue. Fresh and lively when young, the best of them will age for a decade or more in the cellar.