Viniou Reviews
Baron Philippe de Rothschild’s 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Pays d’Oc IGP offers a modern take on this iconic grape, crafted in the sun-drenched landscapes of southern France. This wine reveals the varietal’s classic character: deep garnet in color with rich, expressive aromas of blackcurrant, ripe plum, and hints of cedar and spice. The palate is well-structured, featuring supple tannins, energizing freshness, and a lingering, fruit-driven finish. Being a Cabernet Sauvignon, expect pronounced dark fruit notes balanced by subtle herbal undertones and a light touch of oak, deriving from careful vinification techniques aimed at highlighting both varietal purity and regional expression.
The Pays d’Oc IGP region stretches across the Languedoc and Roussillon, basking in a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm, dry summers and mild winters. The region’s diverse soils—ranging from clay-limestone to schist and gravel—provide excellent drainage and contribute to the complexity of the wines produced here. Historically, this area has been a crossroads of viticultural innovation, blending tradition with forward-thinking winemaking. The favorable climate allows Cabernet Sauvignon to ripen fully, yielding wines that are both powerful and approachable in their youth.
For food pairings, the vibrant structure and dark fruit profile of this Cabernet Sauvignon makes it a natural partner for grilled meats such as lamb chops, beef tenderloin, or duck breast. The wine’s freshness also complements classic Mediterranean dishes like ratatouille or a hearty cassoulet. For a regional touch, try it alongside a Languedoc specialty such as gardianne de taureau (bull stew) or cassoulet with sausage, where the wine’s boldness matches the savory intensity of the dish.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. If the wine is young, a brief decanting will help soften its youthful tannins and allow its full aromatic expression to shine. Enjoy it over the next two to four years to appreciate its fruit-driven charm and subtle complexity.
