Wines Pays d'Oc Calmel & Joseph - Villa Blanche Syrah - 2024

Viniou Reviews

Calmel & Joseph's Cuvée Villa Blanche Syrah 2024 is an expressive red wine crafted from 100% Syrah, displaying all the varietal character and finesse that this grape can offer in the Languedoc region. The 2024 vintage is fresh and youthful, showcasing intense aromas of blackberries, black pepper, violets and subtle notes of liquorice, coming from both the grape and sensitive oak aging. The Pays d’Oc IGP appellation allows for creative winemaking, and Calmel & Joseph make the most of this freedom by selecting parcels of Syrah grown on a mix of limestone and clay soils, which bring both richness and vivacity to the wine. Modern vinification with careful temperature control preserves the aromatic purity, while the structure remains supple and generous, with fine tannins and a lingering finish.

Languedoc, nestled along France’s Mediterranean coast, is one of the country’s oldest and most dynamic wine regions, historically known for volume but now celebrated for quality. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cooling sea breezes, is ideal for Syrah, encouraging full ripening while maintaining freshness. Rocky, well-drained soils and abundant sunshine produce wines with depth and intensity, while the history of winemaking here—tracing back to Roman times—reflects both tradition and constant reinvention.

For food pairings, this Villa Blanche Syrah excels alongside Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Try it with grilled lamb chops flavoured with rosemary and garlic, duck breast with a blackcurrant sauce, or a regional cassoulet for a heartier option. It also pairs beautifully with hard cheeses like tomme or aged Comté and works well with vegetarian dishes featuring roasted peppers and aubergines.

When serving, decanting for 30 minutes enhances its aromatic profile. The ideal tasting temperature is 16-18°C, which brings out the Syrah’s full range of flavours while preserving its elegance and freshness. This wine can be enjoyed now for its youthful charm, or aged a few years to gain complexity.