Zin the next big thing in the Languedoc?

Forget the traditional Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre blends in the Languedoc: the next big thing could be Zinfandel.

Following the EU wine reform, Zinfandel can be planted in the region and one producer has some 17 year-old vines ready to make some burly wines.

Louis Marie Teisserenc of Domaine de L’Arjolle in the Côtes de Thongue area is leading the Zinfandel revolution. He first planted Zin vines in 1992 on an experimental basis after a reconnaissance mission to California. Impressed by its acid retention in Napa’s warm climes, he was sure it could adapt to the Languedoc.

“Our Mediterranean climate is similar to the Californian coast and Napa. Now we are allowed to plant Zinfandel under the vin de France designation, we will plant more.”

There’s plenty of interest in Teisserenc’s Zin planting including Pierre Colbert at Château des Flaugergues so watch this space. Let’s hope they don’t start making White Zin out of it.