Languedoc presented by Graham Tigg

Nestling between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean, the Languedoc enjoys a climate which is ideal for rural holidays and wine cultivation. A favourite destination in ancient times, wine making has evolved from its early Roman style to the more contemporary, mixing the traditional grape varieties with modern wine-making techniques. The Languedoc along with neighbour Roussillon is now France's most exciting and developing wine region, with many appellations such as Pic St Loup and Montpeyroux that you may have heard of but have rarely tried. Twenty years ago it was responsible for much of Europe's infamous "wine lake" and little else. Today supermarket shelves stock varietals such as Syrah and Chardonnay that compete with the best of the new world for everyday drinking. When it comes to interesting bottles to accompany a fine meal then you'll find them from Languedoc. An added bonus is that fine wine of virtually all styles is made - red, white, rosé, aperitif/dessert with even port equivalents and sparkling wine.

It seems amazing that it has been ten years since Graham Tigg last presented at Charlemagne. He returns to tell us of his continued love affair with Languedoc, where he has owned a home for 15 years. He knows the region well, and has been writing and publishing restaurant reviews for 18 years. As well as restaurants, he is also a connoisseur of the local wines on which he writes a blog languedoc-wine.blogspot.com. He has included in his selection some wines which are not currently obtainable in the UK.