Cébène’s “À la Venvole” 2021 from the Faugères AOC in Languedoc embodies the vibrant spirit of this southern French region. Crafted from a blend typical of the appellation—often including Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and sometimes Carignan—the wine showcases the harmony and intensity characteristic of Faugères reds. The 2021 vintage benefitted from a balanced growing season, often resulting in wines with both freshness and depth. At Domaine de Cébène, the vinification favours gentle extraction and a hands-off approach, allowing the character of the grapes and the stony schist soils to show through. Expect a deep ruby colour, expressive aromas of ripe blackberry, wild herbs (garrigue), violets, and a touch of spice, all underpinned by fine tannins and lively acidity.
The Faugères appellation sits in the heart of the Languedoc, in the foothills of the Massif Central, north of Béziers. This region is renowned for its unique schistous soils, which impart minerality and freshness to the wines. The Mediterranean climate here delivers hot, dry summers and mild winters, with cooling breezes from the nearby mountains, providing optimal conditions for grape growing. AOC Faugères is relatively small but is lauded for its focus on quality and expressive terroirs. The region’s viticultural history dates back to Roman times, and contemporary producers like Cébène champion sustainable practices to capture the authentic character of their landscape.
This style of Faugères red is a versatile companion at the table. It pairs beautifully with roasted lamb seasoned with rosemary, grilled duck breast, or a cassoulet—a classic dish from the broader Languedoc region. The wine’s structure and herbal nuances are also wonderful with aubergine dishes, tapenade, or hard cheeses such as Tomme de Brebis.
For best enjoyment, serve this wine at a temperature of 16–18°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes will help open up its aromatic complexity and soften the tannins, allowing you to fully appreciate its distinctive southern French charm.
