Viniou Reviews
Terrasses du Rieutor 2007 from the Faugères AOC in Languedoc is an expressive red wine that highlights the unique character of its terroir. Though the precise blend is not specified, Faugères reds typically bring together Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Carignan, and occasionally Cinsault. The 2007 vintage was marked by balanced ripeness and freshness in the region, contributing to a well-structured wine that has benefited from a few years of bottle age. The typical vinification for this area focuses on preserving both fruit and the rugged minerality that the schist soils impart, via controlled fermentation and careful extraction methods.
Faugères sits in the heart of the Languedoc, along the foothills of the Massif Central. Its vineyards are renowned for their distinctive schist soils, which retain heat and encourage deep-rooted vines to thrive even in dry conditions. The Mediterranean climate ensures sunny, hot days and cooling winds from the north, allowing for optimal ripening while retaining freshness in the grapes. The appellation has a long viticultural tradition, with wine production dating back to Roman times, and today it is celebrated for robust reds that balance power with elegance thanks to both terroir and traditional winemaking techniques.
For food pairing, this wine’s developed structure and earthy undertones make it an excellent companion to grilled lamb chops with herbes de Provence, cassoulet, or a confit de canard. Its spicy notes and firm tannins marry well with wild boar stew, a local speciality, or with mature hard cheeses such as aged Tomme. Vegetarian options like roasted aubergine and pepper ratatouille will also pair beautifully, echoing the wine’s herbal qualities.
To fully appreciate the depth and aromatic complexity of Terrasses du Rieutor 2007, serve it slightly below room temperature, ideally at 16-18°C, and consider decanting for at least an hour to allow the wine to open up and reveal its layered bouquet.
