About Languedoc

It is believed that, in Coteaux du Languedoc, the Greeks planted the first vine in France, 500 years B.C.

Languedoc is the biggest French wine-producing region with a production of 1.2 billion liters a year (2016).

The area actually has 5% of the word wide wine production. Larger than Australia, Chile, Germany, and South Africa.

The Languedoc area has 7 Crus du Langedoc AOCs, and eleven Grand Vin du Languedoc AOCs.

It also has one regional appellation - AOC Languedoc, and many IGP appellations that will/can be granted AOCs one day.

Corbières is the largest AOC in Languedoc-Roussillon, responsible for nearly half of the AOC wines in the region.

About GSM

The GMS blend is a classic blend from the Côtes du Rhône region of France. It is also very popular in the Languedoc region.

It is a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre:

1. Grenache is planted worldwide, but especially in France, Spain,
   Italy, Australia, California and South Africa.
   It is the dominant grape in the blend, adding soft red berry flavors.

2. Syrah is one of the darkest full-bodied wines in the world.
   It adds dark fruit flavors of blackberry, blueberry and plum to the blend.

3. Mourvèdre is a rich red wine.
   It contributes tannins and depth and adds herbal and floral notes to the blend.

Why Blend

Blending is a strategic approach that helps winemakers create wines that are not only unique and complex but also resilient and consistent from year to year.

Stylistic Reasons

1. Complexity and Balance
   Blending different grape varieties allows winemakers to create a more complex and balanced wine by combining the unique characteristics of each grape. For example, Grenache provides body and fruitiness, Syrah adds structure and spiciness, while Mourvèdre contributes tannins and depth.

2. Consistency
   Blending can help achieve consistency in the final product, ensuring that each vintage maintains a similar profile and quality despite variations in growing conditions.

3. Enhanced Aromatics and Flavors
   Different grape varieties contribute diverse aromas and flavors, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the wine. This can result in a wine with a more layered and nuanced palate.

Practical Reasons

1. Climate Adaptability
   Some regions experience variable weather conditions. By blending grapes that ripen at different times or have different levels of resistance to climatic challenges, winemakers can reduce the risks of poor vintages.

2. Viticultural Flexibility
   Different grape varieties thrive in different soil types and microclimates. Blending allows winemakers to utilize the best grapes from various parts of their vineyards.

3. Economic Efficiency
   Blending can make more efficient use of the available grapes, ensuring that nothing goes to waste and maximizing the overall yield.