Guide to Languedoc, France: best vineyards and wine tours

With ancient Cathar castles, the lofty Pyrenees and a coastline strung with fishing villages turned gastro hotspots, the Languedoc’s revitalised wine industry is the icing on the regional cake. We’re staying at the stylish Château Les Carrasses, a 19th-century castle turned wine resort where a collection of chic apartments and villas are surrounded by acres of carefully tended vines. At the chateau’s brasserie we try the Château’s own wines, including a fresh but rich chardonnay with hints of pineapple and citrus.

A tour of another winery, Château Capitoul with specialist local operator Vin en Vacances includes a guided tasting on a balcony overlooking the beautiful La Clape, a terroir so unique it has its own sub-appellation. The Rocaille (€11 per bottle) is an outstanding, full-bodied red with notes of pepper and strawberry.