In Hannibal’s footsteps

Although our weekly travels have been taking us progressively farther north, I want to backtrack south this week to pay homage to a wine region that rarely receives due respect. The Languedoc-Roussillon wine area in France can be described as an arc from the mouth of the Rhône River on its east, to the Spanish border on its southwest.

The wines of Languedoc- Roussillon have a long history. Vines were first planted in the 5th century B.C. by the Greeks, as they (and the Phoenicians) were establishing settlements in the western Mediterranean. In early Roman history, the region served as the overland route between Spain and Italy. (Hannibal, and his armies from Carthage, passed through the area in the Second Punic War against Rome.) Romans, themselves, later began to settle the region just prior to the Gallic Wars, and they subsequently felt the footsteps of Rome’s legions marching towards Spain during the civil war between the forces of Pompey and Julius Caesar.

Highways evolved to facilitate transportation of food and beverage to these passing armies. Garrisons were established and became of prime importance in assuring the flow of wine and food to local inhabitants and passing troops. With such security, production of wine became so lucrative that it made Italian growers envious. So they persuaded the Emperor of the time to have the vineyards ripped out. But Languedoc-Roussillon wasn’t finished yet. As the Roman Empire was declining in the West, around the 4th century A.D., the area became susceptible to invasion once again. New blood, once again, planted fields and vineyards to provide for the more civilized side of life.

Next week we examine the massive union of lands that made France what it is today!

Where did Valentine’s Day get its name? The Roman Catholic Saint’s Calendar dedicates February 14 to the memory of many saints who shared the name Valentine, and who were martyrs to their faith. But, other than sharing the date, there doesn’t seem to be any connection between these saints and our modern celebration of love. It is fitting to recognize, all

the same, that we should give thanks daily for the good fortune to love and to be loved.

THIS WEEK’S PICK
Regardless of date, there is a wine for such an occasion. It always has bubbles and, if the planets are aligned, it will show a rose colour hue. This week, raise a toast to romance and love with a glass of 3630 Bubbles 2008 Sparkling. This sparkling wine was made in very small quantities from a single acre of high density planting. A complete labor of love, it is perfectly appropriate for this celebration.

Bill Turnbull crafted this small production of 1,200 bottles. Made in the traditional style, Bubbles is a delight to the eye. The apple and citrus fruits tantalize the palate as the mousse explodes in the mouth. The lingering flavors are enhanced with a distinctive County minerality. As sparkling wine goes, this one demands the right food and will be the perfect companion for this week’s recipe.

If you want something special to celebrate with someone special, call the vineyard at 613- 399-5888.

Happy Valentine’s Day!