Château Capion’s “Le Chemin des Garennes” 2018 from the Terrasses-du-Larzac appellation is an exemplary red blend from the Languedoc region. Typically crafted from a selection of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and sometimes Carignan, this cuvée represents the essence of Mediterranean red winemaking. The 2018 vintage benefitted from a temperate growing season balanced by cool nights, resulting in a wine of poise and complexity. Lush notes of ripe black fruit dominate the bouquet, with underlying hints of garrigue, black olives, and subtle spice, all enveloped within fine tannins. The vinification respects traditional methods, with fermentation in stainless steel or concrete followed by maturation in French oak, imparting structure and finesse while allowing the vibrant fruit to shine.
The Terrasses-du-Larzac, nestled to the north-west of Montpellier, is renowned for its cooler microclimate compared to other parts of the Languedoc. The vineyards are situated at altitude, on stony terraces composed of limestone and clay, which confer minerality and freshness to the wines. The region’s history is intertwined with both Roman viticulture and monastic orders, but it is in recent decades that Terrasses-du-Larzac has received acclaim for producing some of the most elegant and ageworthy reds of the South of France.
This wine’s depth and aromatic complexity make it a versatile partner at the table. It marries particularly well with traditional southern French dishes such as lamb shoulder confit with thyme or duck breast with black olive tapenade. For a more rustic pairing, consider cassoulet or grilled vegetables scented with herbs de Provence. Its structure and vibrancy will also complement hard cheeses like Cantal or aged Comté.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at 16-18°C. Decanting one to two hours before serving is recommended, allowing the wine to fully express its aromatic palette and integrate its soft tannins. This is a wine with both immediate charm and ageing potential; to appreciate its evolution, cellar a few bottles for several more years if you can resist temptation.
