Les Vignes Oubliées 2022 is a red wine from the Terrasses du Larzac appellation in Languedoc, southern France. This cuvée is typically a blend dominated by Syrah and Grenache, often complemented by Mourvèdre and occasionally old-vine Carignan. The 2022 vintage benefits from a warm, dry year, leading to ripe, concentrated fruit and well-defined tannic structure. Many producers in Terrasses du Larzac, including Les Vignes Oubliées, focus on meticulous vineyard work and minimal intervention in the cellar. Expect hand-harvesting, gentle extraction, and ageing in older barrels or concrete vats to preserve fruit purity. The result is an expressive wine, with aromas of black cherries, wild herbs (garrigue), liquorice, and subtle smoky notes. The palate reveals depth and freshness, with balanced acidity and harmonious, slightly spicy tannins.
The Terrasses du Larzac is a prestigious area within Languedoc, nestled at the foot of the southern Massif Central. The vineyards enjoy a unique microclimate, benefitting from significant diurnal temperature swings that help preserve acidity and aromatic complexity in the grapes. Soils are predominantly a mix of limestone, clay, and ancient alluvium, contributing structure and minerality. Though the wider Languedoc’s history is rooted in quantity, Terrasses du Larzac’s dynamic terroir and forward-looking producers have helped redefine the region, focusing on quality, authenticity, and terroir expression.
This bold yet elegant red pairs superbly with hearty southern French cuisine. Slow-cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary, duck confit, or cassoulet are natural matches, as the wine’s structure cuts through richness while its herbal notes echo the local garrigue. For a vegetarian pairing, try a roasted aubergine and lentil moussaka, or simply a platter of mature sheep’s cheeses from the region.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. If it is youthful and tannic, a brief decanting (about 30 minutes) will allow the bouquet to open fully. This bottle can be approached now for its vibrant fruit, but it will reward a few years’ patience in your cellar.
