La Combe Rouge Pays d'Oc

La Combe Rouge Pays d'Oc: A delightful fruity red from Southern France

Looking for a vibrant and easy-drinking red wine to liven up your table? Look no further than La Combe Rouge Pays d'Oc, a delightful red from the sunny climes of southern France. This wine is a fantastic choice for any occasion, offering a juicy fruit character balanced by subtle spice notes, making it a crowd-pleaser at an affordable price.

Grape Varietals and Winemaking

Hailing from the Pays d'Oc region, La Combe Rouge is a blend of several grape varietals commonly found in the Languedoc-Roussillon area. The exact blend can vary slightly from year to year, but typically includes Syrah, Merlot, Cinsault, and Carignan. These grapes thrive in the warm Mediterranean climate, with plenty of sunshine and cooling influences from the nearby sea.

The winemaking process for La Combe Rouge prioritises freshness and fruit expression. The grapes are typically machine-harvested at optimal ripeness to capture their vibrant flavours. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, preserving the delicate fruit character of the wine. After fermentation, the wine may undergo a short ageing period in tanks or neutral oak barrels to soften the tannins and add a touch of complexity.

Tasting Notes: A symphony of red fruits and spice

Pour yourself a glass of La Combe Rouge and be greeted by a beautiful ruby red colour with hints of purple. On the nose, a delightful bouquet of ripe red fruits unfolds, with aromas of cherries, plums, and raspberries. Hints of spice, such as pepper and liquorice, add a touch of complexity to the aroma profile.

The first sip reveals a juicy and fresh palate, brimming with flavours that mirror the enticing aromas. The red fruit character takes centre stage, with cherries, plums, and redcurrants dancing on the tongue. The tannins are soft and gentle, providing a pleasant structure without being overpowering. Subtle hints of spice linger on the finish, adding a touch of elegance to the overall experience.

Food Pairing: A versatile choice for your table

La Combe Rouge's easy-drinking style and juicy fruit character make it a versatile food pairing wine. Here are some delicious food matches to enhance your enjoyment:

• Grilled meats:  La Combe Rouge pairs beautifully with grilled meats like sausages, burgers, and lamb chops. The wine's fruitiness complements the smoky notes from grilling, while the soft tannins can handle the richness of the meat.
• Pasta dishes: Enjoy La Combe Rouge with tomato-based pasta dishes, such as spaghetti Bolognese or lasagna. The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the tomato sauce, while the fruit character complements the herbs and spices typically found in these dishes.
• Pizza:  Pizza night? La Combe Rouge is a perfect match! The wine's acidity complements the acidity of the tomato sauce, while the fruit character complements the variety of toppings commonly found on pizzas.
• Cheese: La Combe Rouge pairs well with a variety of cheeses. Try it with semi-hard cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar, or explore softer options like Brie or Camembert.
• Vegetarian options: Don't be afraid to pair La Combe Rouge with vegetarian dishes. The wine's fruitiness complements lentil stews, vegetable curries, and even veggie burgers.

Serving Suggestions

For the best enjoyment, serve La Combe Rouge slightly chilled, ideally between 15-17°C (59-63°F). This temperature range will highlight the wine's fresh fruit character and keep the tannins soft and approachable.

La Combe Rouge: A delightful addition to your wine rack

La Combe Rouge Pays d'Oc is a charming and easy-drinking red wine that offers fantastic value for money. Its juicy fruit character, balanced acidity, and soft tannins make it a versatile choice for any occasion. So next time you're looking for a crowd-pleasing red wine to pair with a variety of dishes, look no further than La Combe Rouge. With its delightful flavours and easy-going style, it's sure to become a staple on your wine rack.

Order your bottle of La Combe Rouge Pays d'Oc today from The General Wine Company and experience the taste of the sunny south of France!