Wines Languedoc Les Vignerons de Fontès - Ceressou - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Les Vignerons de Fontès' Cuvée Ceressou 2023 is a red wine from the renowned Languedoc region in the south of France, specifically crafted under the Languedoc AOC appellation. While precise varietal composition is not specified, Cuvée Ceressou is typically a blend championing traditional Languedoc grapes such as Syrah, Grenache, and possibly Mourvèdre or Carignan. The 2023 vintage, being young, is likely to express vibrant fruitiness, lively acidity and soft tannins, suitable for earlier drinking. The vinification method often favours stainless steel or concrete tanks, with little or moderate oak influence to preserve freshness and showcase varietal purity.

The Languedoc has a rich viticultural heritage and is celebrated for its diverse terroirs and innovative winemaking. The vineyard landscapes here are defined by gently rolling hills, stony soils—particularly limestone and clay—and a Mediterranean climate, with warm sunshine, mild winters and cooling maritime breezes. These conditions favour the full ripening of grapes, contributing to deep colour, generous aromas, and a pleasing balance of fruit and spice in regional reds like Ceressou. This part of France has been producing wine since Roman times and has, in recent decades, undergone a quality revolution, making Languedoc AOC wines sought after for their value and expressiveness.

For food pairing, this versatile red shines alongside grilled meats, herb-roasted lamb, ratatouille, or a classic cassoulet—dishes that embrace the local flavours and richness. The wine’s freshness also offers a pleasing contrast with spicy sausages or mature cheeses of the region, such as Pélardon or Tomme des Corbières. Its succulent fruit and gentle peppery notes make it adaptable to Mediterranean cuisine, including tomato-based pasta sauces or Provençal vegetable gratin.

To appreciate Cuvée Ceressou at its best, serve it slightly cool to moderate, around 15-17°C. Decanting for a brief period can help open up young aromatics, highlighting juicy red berries, wild herbs and a subtle savoury undertone typical of Languedoc blends. Enjoy within the next couple of years to savour its youthful exuberance.