Château Lancyre’s Cuvée Coste d’Aleyrac 2020 hails from the prestigious Pic-Saint-Loup appellation, a jewel of the Languedoc region in southern France. This red wine, crafted in the 2020 vintage, likely showcases the expressive, sun-drenched style for which the area is renowned. The exact blend is not fully confirmed, though Pic-Saint-Loup reds are typically dominated by Syrah, sometimes complemented by Grenache and Carignan. The winemaking approach here tends to emphasise fruit purity and freshness, while allowing the subtle influence of the garrigue and limestone soils to shine through. Expect a wine with inviting aromas of ripe dark berries, hints of wild herbs and spices, and a subtle earthiness—hallmarks of this exceptional terroir.
Pic-Saint-Loup, located at the northern edge of the Languedoc, benefits from a distinctive microclimate: the cool air drifting down from the Cévennes mountains tempers the Mediterranean warmth, enabling a longer ripening period. This, combined with stony limestone soils, contributes to reds that are both structured and elegant, maintaining vibrant acidity and aromatic complexity. The region has a long winemaking history dating back to Roman times, though its modern reputation rests on the finesse and age-worthiness of its best wines, particularly those from high-quality estates such as Château Lancyre.
For food pairings, the structure and aromatic intensity of this wine make it a natural companion to flavourful, rustic dishes. Consider grilled lamb with Provencal herbs, a hearty cassoulet or roast duck breast. Regional cheeses such as Pélardon or a semi-firm tomme would also complement the wine’s earthy nuances and subtle spice. If you favour vegetarian options, roasted root vegetables or a wild mushroom ragout would enhance its herbaceous undertones.
To enjoy this wine at its best, serve it at 16-18°C, ideally after a brief aeration or decanting to allow the bouquet to unfold fully. This will reveal the depth and complexity that make Pic-Saint-Loup such an exciting appellation in the Languedoc.
