Almost a country within a country, the Languedoc (land of the Occitane language) has more than twice as much land under vine as Australia. The region has been transformed from its high volume, low quality past with yields down, quality rising and much excitement about its future potential.
Languedoc reds (Carignan, Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache) are characterized by flavours of the garrique, the wild scrub thyme and other herbs that grow in the region.
Far less white wine is made than red or rose. Look out for regional specialities like Picpoul and well made vin de pays Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Viognier.