Wines Languedoc Pézenas Mas Gabriel - clos des lièvres - 2019

Mas Gabriel’s Cuvée Clos des Lièvres 2019 from the Languedoc Pézenas appellation is an expressive red that beautifully embodies the spirit of southern France. While the precise blend of grape varieties is not detailed, reds from Pézenas are often composed of a mix of traditional Mediterranean varieties—potentially Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Carignan—offering a compelling balance of fruit, spice, and structure. The 2019 vintage, marked by a warm and dry growing season in this region, typically produces wines with ripe, concentrated fruit alongside fresh, lively acidity. The vinification at estates like Mas Gabriel tends to focus on minimal intervention, allowing the distinctiveness of the terroir to shine through in the glass.

The Pézenas area within Languedoc lies in the heart of southern France, enjoying a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, perfect for encouraging the development of robust, expressive reds. The soils here are particularly noteworthy, with a mix of gravels, pebbles and limestone, occasionally interspersed with patches of volcanic basalt, lending the wines a particular mineral character and depth. Historically, the region has been a crossroads for winemaking traditions, dating back to Roman times, and it continues to produce some of the most characterful and authentic wines of southern France.

For food pairing, this style of Languedoc red is a marvellous companion to robust dishes. Consider enjoying it with roast lamb seasoned with herbs of Provence, grilled Mediterranean vegetables, cassoulet, or duck confit. Local, strong-flavoured cheeses such as Roquefort or Tomme de Pézenas would also pair beautifully. The wine’s structure and freshness allow it to handle complex, well-seasoned foods without being overwhelmed.

To fully appreciate this Mas Gabriel Cuvée Clos des Lièvres 2019, serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour or two before serving will allow the wine’s aromas and flavours to unfold, showcasing its full aromatic depth and harmonious palate.