Here is a wine that epitomizes my goals with Extraordinary Wines From Off the Beaten Path.  It’s not so much that the Languedoc is such an unusual region, but that this is a wine who’s entire reason to be rests in the idea that Cabernet Franc, a grape that isn’t supposed to be in the Languedoc, can make great wines there.  The results speak for themselves.  But even so, because no one is used to Cabernet Franc in this region, the wine sells for far less than it’s quality would suggest.

This is When brilliant young winemaker Jeff Carrel came to Languedoc many growerssolicited his services. Dominique Menjucq was impressed enough to offer equity in his substantial Domaine in return for first call on Jeff ’s time.

One of the things that impressed Jeff about Dominique was a shared conviction that Cabernet Franc could be better in Languedoc than either Merlot or Cab Sauv. Puydeval rouge is 60% Cabernet Franc, 30% Syrah, 10% Merlot. The wine is aged 8 months in one and two year old barrels. The result is polished, ripe and balanced.

This wine is full-bodied, with a great richness, and just hints of Cabernet Franc’s gamey bell-peppery character.  Try this wine with Hamburgers, Roast Lamb, Blue Cheese and richly flavored dishes made with Farro.  Drink now – 2012, maybe longer.