($20, Wines Of France):  The Languedoc region of France is a treasure trove for wines, from those labeled Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP, or what was formerly Vin de Pays) to more prestigious ones that carry an appellation, such as this one. Limoux, a small village in the eastern foothills of the Pyrenees, has been known for sparkling wines for centuries.  It’s cooler than the remainder of the Languedoc because of its high elevation, which means the grapes, chiefly Mauzac, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc, maintain their acidity as they ripen, imparting freshness to the wine.  “Blanquette” in the local dialect means white and is also the local name for the Mauzac grape.  Michèle Capdepon’s is a good example of what the appellation has to offer.  A blend of Mauzac and Chardonnay, it combines the slightly exotic nature of the former with a subtle creaminess from the latter.  Fresh and clean, it’s excellent as an aperitif, yet sturdy enough to pair with a simply grilled fish or a more elaborate Mediterranean fish stew.
89 Michael Apstein Mar 2, 2021