Viniou Reviews
La Capelude, produced under the Pays d’Oc IGP, is a red wine from the sun-drenched Languedoc-Roussillon region in southern France. As it is non-vintage (non-millésimé), this wine is crafted in a style that seeks consistency across years, often blending multiple grape varieties typical of the region—such as Grenache, Syrah, Merlot or Carignan. The result is a supple, approachable red with fresh fruit notes and a smooth texture, highlighting the warmth and generosity of its terroir. Vinification tends to focus on preserving fruit purity, with stainless steel tanks often employed to maintain freshness and soft tannins, making it a versatile wine for everyday enjoyment.
The Languedoc-Roussillon is renowned for its vast, varied landscapes stretching from the Mediterranean coastline to the foothills of the Pyrenees. With a warm Mediterranean climate, abundant sunshine, and cooling sea breezes, the region offers ideal conditions for ripening grapes fully while retaining balance. Soils here are diverse, from limestone and clay to schist and pebbles, contributing to both the complexity and accessibility found in wines like La Capelude. Historically, the area has been a backbone of French wine production, and in recent decades, a wave of innovation and renewed focus on quality has brought the region into the spotlight for value-driven, expressive wines.
This easy-drinking red is well-suited to casual dining. For classic pairings, turn to Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as grilled lamb chops seasoned with rosemary and garlic, a rustic ratatouille, or regional charcuterie including saucisson and pâtés. The wine’s soft fruit and moderate structure also work beautifully with pizza, pasta bakes, or rotisserie chicken. If you fancy exploring local harmony, pair it with cassoulet, the iconic bean and sausage stew from the south of France.
For optimal enjoyment, serve La Capelude red at 16-18°C. Decanting is not strictly necessary but can help open up the aromas if you wish. Enjoy its youthful vibrancy within a couple of years for maximum freshness.
