Wines Faugères Mas d'Alezon - Cabretta - 2022

Mas d’Alezon’s “Cuvée Cabretta” 2022, from the renowned Faugères appellation in Languedoc, is a white wine distinguished by its biodynamic credentials. While the precise varietal composition isn’t specified, white wines from Faugères often reflect a harmonious blend, potentially including grapes such as Grenache Blanc, Roussanne, Marsanne, or Vermentino. The 2022 vintage, marked by a warm but not overly hot growing season, likely delivers fresh aromatics and vibrant mineral tension, especially given the estate’s commitment to respectful vineyard practices. Vinification is generally attentive in this region, focusing on gentle extraction and the preservation of natural freshness, which should result in a white with clarity, delicacy, and lingering finesse.

The Faugères terroir is unique within the Languedoc, defined by its schistous soils that lend a signature mineral depth to the wines. This ancient soil, coupled with the region’s Mediterranean climate—favourable sun, cool nights, and the maritime influence from the nearby sea—ensures the grapes reach optimum ripeness while retaining vital acidity. Languedoc itself boasts a vibrant history, being one of France’s oldest winemaking regions, known for both innovation and resurgent commitment to quality, particularly among biodynamic producers like Mas d’Alezon. The combination of challenging soils and a focus on sustainable viticulture results in characterful, expressive wines.

Pairing this Faugères blanc, expect versatility with food. Its probable freshness and subtle mineral notes would make it sublime with seafood, such as grilled sea bass or oysters, and with classic Mediterranean fare—think fish stews with fennel, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, or a local goat’s cheese salad. More adventurous matches might include roasted poultry with lemon and thyme or vegetable terrines showcasing Provençal flavours.

For full enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally between 9-11°C. Give it a moment in the glass to open and reveal its aromatic layers, and consider decanting if enjoying while still in its youthful prime to enhance its subtle complexity. This wine promises both immediate pleasure and some potential for short-term cellaring.