July 25th is National Wine and Cheese Day. Celebrate with…
The Languedoc region in the South of France has some great wines. I just discovered a beautiful Rosé which celebrates the Mediterranean lifestyle. Its name is Côte des Roses. Few Americans probably know the region where it comes from. The Languedoc appellation stretches along the Mediterranean coast from the Spanish border and goes as far as the city of Nîmes, along the foothills of the Montagne Noire and the Cévennes.
The bottle is original with its base in the shape of a rose, created by a young designer from the Ecole Boulle. Gerard Bertrand, the owner, was born and raised in the South of France making wine with his father, Georges, since the age of 10. Today, Gerard Bertrand produces an array of wines from the region including red, white, rose, varietal, appellation, estate, still, sparkling, and dessert. The Gérard Bertrand group is the spearhead of a viticulture committed to a better future. The Languedoc’s benchmark biodynamic wines create wines that reflect all the nuances of their terroir. Recognized for his great talent as a blender as well as for his audacity and creativity, Gerard and his teams are working to make the wines of southern France shine throughout the world.
Every wine evokes the image and emotions from the South of France; “Art de Vivre.” Committed to producing quality wines of great value, Gerard is hands-on in every facet which bears his name.
“I welcome all to experience the South of France; here at Chateau L’Hospitalet or at your own home or favorite restaurant.” says Gerard.
I had the pleasure of trying 3 wines from his collection.
Cote des Roses Rose 2022
The robe shows a soft, pale, brilliant pink with bluish tints developing over time towards more orangey nuances. The bouquet releases aromas of summer fruits, cassis and redcurrant Floral notes of rose along with hints of grapefruit that complete the picture. On the palate the impression is fresh and full, with great aromatic persistence and balance. The finish is fresh, offering notes of candy, ideal as an aperitif or with shellfish and subtly spiced dishes.
Cote des Roses Sauvignon Blanc 2021
This cuvée has a pale golden and crystalline color. A beautiful roundness on the palate is brought by the terroirs of the South of France, which allow it to develop notes of guava and passion fruit, while its citrus fruit aromas bring a lot of freshness and minerality.
Orange Gold 2021
A complex and scented nose, very fresh, overflowing with peach, apricot and Mirabelle aromas. The mouthfeel is round, suave with a delicate texture, clear and tasty notes. This wine is well-balanced and complex thanks to the tannins that structure the body and the spirit.
Pair it ideally with Indian curry dishes, slightly spiced Asian cuisine or hard crust cheeses.
But it does not stop there, if you are considering a vacation in the south of France, check out the Château de l’Hospitalet wine resort and Beach Spa. There you will be able to enjoy many wines while relaxing. But that should be reserved for another article… Until then.
