Guide to Wine Podcast: Episode 138

The Most Underrated Region in France: Languedoc-Roussillon w/ Ioana Bucur (Part 1)

Air Date: Wednesday, January 7th, 2026

Listen to the Podcast!

What if one of the oldest wine regions in the world is also the one most wine lovers overlook?

This conversation with Ioana Bucur, new co-owner of Princess and Bear Wines, dives deep into the heart of Languedoc and Roussillon, the southern French wine regions known for authenticity, history, and an unmatched sense of place. You’ll hear how centuries of tradition, diverse terroir, and small artisanal domaines shape wines that are vibrant, expressive, and surprisingly affordable.

From mountain vineyards and Mediterranean breezes to volcanic soils and female winemakers, this episode is a journey through the people, land, and stories that make these wines so unforgettable. Whether you love crisp whites, bold reds, or sparkling wines, this region has it all and then some.

If you’ve been wanting to explore new wine regions or step outside your comfort zone, this is the perfect place to start!

And don’t miss next week's episode where I’m back with another conversation with Ioana! 

Use code BONJOUR and receive 10% off your online purchase at www.theprincessandthebear.com.

And if you are in the Seattle area, mention that you are a Cork & Fizz podcast listener and receive a complimentary tasting when you visit the Princess and Bear tasting room in January and February 2026. To make a reservation for the tasting room call, email at [email protected] or you can make one on the website.

Connect with Ioana:
Website: https://www.theprincessandthebear.com/

Episode Highlights:

• Childhood memories that shaped a lifelong connection to wine
• How Princess and Bear Wines began
• What makes Languedoc-Roussillon authentic and overlooked
• Climate and terroir factors that keep wines fresh in a warm region
• Why organic and biodynamic farming thrive here
• Limoux as the birthplace of traditional sparkling wine
• Standout white wine styles, from crisp and mineral to complex and savory
• How volcanic soils and fossils influence flavor
• Why trying unfamiliar wines expands your palate
• What to expect from the region’s red wines, from juicy to bold and complex
• The traditional-method sparkling wines of Limoux and their blends

Thank you to the following brands for sponsoring this podcast:

• Bon Chocolats: Go to www.bonchocolats.com and use code CORKANDFIZZ10 for 10% off your order!

Don't Forget to Download my Free Wine Tasting Guide!
https://www.corkandfizz.com/free-wine-tasting-guide

Connect with me:
Cork and Fizz - https://www.corkandfizz.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/corkandfizz/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/corkandfizz/
Email - [email protected]