France’s first grapes of the season come from Roussillon, which hosts one of the hottest and driest vineyards of the country. Roussillon is bordered by the Pyrenees mountain range to the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the east, which creates a range of microclimates and soil types that contribute to the diversity of wines produced in the region. It covers 2,300 hectares of vineyards, with Grenache, Syrah, Carignan and Mourvèdre as dominant grape varieties.

The red wines of Roussillon are often full-bodied and rich in tannins, with a deep ruby or grenat color. They typically have intense fruit flavors, such as blackberry, blackcurrant, and raspberry, along with hints of spices, such as black pepper and cinnamon. Some of the top appellations for red wines in Roussillon include Côtes du Roussillon, Collioure, and Maury.

The white wines are typically made from Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Vermentino and are known for their fresh acidity and aromas of citrus and tropical fruits. The region also produces some excellent rosé wines, made from a blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and other grape varieties.

Roussillon is also known for its fortified wines, including Banyuls and Maury. These wines are traditionally aged in barrels for several years, resulting in intense flavors of dried fruit, nuts, and spices.

The Mediterranean climate, mountainous terrain and variety of soils create unique wines with complexity, depth of flavour, richness and elegance, making them a must-try for wine enthusiasts.