Coteaux du Languedoc AC [koh-toh deu LAHNG-dahk]
Large appellation in southern France that encompasses the vineyards of over 160 different communes and stretches from near Montpellier to Narbonne in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. This huge area has a number of named crus, terroirs, and subzones that have been identified as providing better quality wines than standard Coteaux du Languedoc AC wines and so they’re allowed to add their name to the label. Of these, La Clape, Montpeyroux, and Pic Saint-Loup produce some of the best wines.The reds and rosés are made from Carignan, Cinsaut, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah. White wines are made from Bourboulenc, Clairette, Grenache blanc, Marsanne, Picpoul, Rolle, and Roussanne. Within Coteaux du Languedoc AC are two smaller appellations—faugères AC and Saint-Chinian AC—whose names also appear on the label.
The New Wine Lovers Companion, 2nd Edition, by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Copyright © (1) 2003, 1995 by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Reprinted by arrangement with Barron's Educational Series, Inc.