Wines Faugères La Folie Vigneronne - L'Éloge - 2023

La Folie Vigneronne’s Cuvée L’Éloge 2023 from Faugères is a delightful representation of what modern Languedoc reds have to offer. Typically crafted from a blend of traditional Southern French grape varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, this cuvée expresses the region’s hallmark vibrancy and character. The 2023 vintage benefitted from a warm and generous growing season, resulting in a wine with ripe fruit, aromatic complexity, and supple structure. Winemaking in Faugères often employs both stainless steel and oak, preserving fresh fruit while bringing subtle notes of spice and a rounded finish. Expect a nose of blackberries, wild herbs (the famed 'garrigue'), and liquorice, with a palate that balances juicy red fruits, soft tannins, and an earthy minerality unique to this appellation.

Faugères is part of the historic Languedoc region in southern France. The area’s vineyards are set on schist soils, a defining feature that imparts freshness and a marked mineral streak to the wines. The Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and cooling breezes from the sea and hinterland, allows grapes to ripen fully while maintaining aromatic intensity. Viticulture here dates back to Roman times, though in recent decades, there’s been a notable shift towards quality, often by small, passionate producers who champion the region’s diverse terroirs and indigenous grape varieties.

Cuvée L’Éloge 2023 shines alongside robust dishes that echo the warmth of the south. Pair it with grilled lamb cutlets with rosemary, cassoulet from the Languedoc region, or a hearty ratatouille. Local cheeses such as Roquefort or a mature Tomme des Pyrénées also make excellent companions for the wine’s fruit and subtle spice.

Serve slightly below room temperature to highlight its freshness and aromatic complexity — around 16-18°C is ideal. If enjoyed young, a brief decantation can help the wine express its full array of aromas. This is a convivial wine to share with good food and company, offering a true taste of Faugères’ schist-laden hillsides.