Cassoulet’s origins are famously contentious – the French towns of Toulouse, Castelnaudary and Carcassonne all claim priority when it comes to whose clever peasants first thought to stew dried beans, preserved duck and pork together.
But no matter how you make it, this classic dish always tastes better with a glass of red wine.
The thing is, which wine? Given that Carcassonne is in the Languedoc wine region, Castelnaudary is just outside it, and Toulouse is sort of halfway between the Languedoc and the wine regions of Southwest France, which wine traditionally goes with cassoulet could be debated. Or you could just say the heck with pernickety concerns like these and open up a bottle of Languedoc red.
That’s because what you really need with cassoulet – which is the definition of rich –is an emphatic red: boldly flavoured, full-bodied, with some tannic oomph. The Languedoc is a vast region, planted with a quarter of all the vines in France, and its best reds are typically robust blends involving Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre, though many other varieties often play a part. And if you plan to celebrate National Cassoulet Day – January 9 – by devouring a steaming bowl of cassoulet, they’re just the thing you need to go with it. Other than, of course, a baguette and possibly a napkin.
Cassoulet recipes from Waitrose
Three Languedoc reds to try from Waitrose
Paul Mas Reserve Languedoc Rouge
This smooth and ripe red shows elegant notes of fresh red cherries and blackberries, along with gentle spice and a hint of vanilla. It has a juicy, soft texture and is very versatile. Serve alongside relaxed meals such as sausages or chorizo pasta.
Buy from the Waitrose cellar
Château de Cazeneuve Les Calcaires Pic Saint-Loup, Languedoc-Roussillon
A stunning southern French red; this organic wine is powerful and complex yet shows finesse and elegance. With a fine texture and long length, it's a sumptuous match to grilled steak or a hearty casserole.
Buy from the Waitrose cellar
Marsolay Pinot Noir
Fresh, vibrant and juicy with plenty of red berry notes and a light toasty note of complexity.
Buy from the Waitrose cellar
