If Montpellier is considered to be the wine capital, it is because it is responsible for 33% of the production in France. This represents more than 300,000 hectares of vineyards and 15.7 million hectolitres of wine per year. Find out everything you need to know about wine-growing in this city.
What you need to know about Montpellier wine
Les Grés de Montpellier is one of the most famous vineyards in the world. In addition to being the subject of several wine research projects, the city is also home to the only conservatory of 3,000 grape varieties.
It is also in the capital of Languedoc Roussillon that the IHEV or Institut des Hautes Études de la vigne et du Vin is located. The latter brings together, among others, oenologists, viticulture engineers and managers of wine companies.
For about twenty years, the city of Montpellier has carried out long works to restructure the vineyard. Today, the wines produced there bear the Sud de France umbrella brand, approved and supported by the Languedoc-Roussillon region. The AOC Languedoc-Grès de Montpellier appellation encompasses the entire agglomeration, but also part of the nearby towns.
Grés de Montpellier is a name inspired by the stony soil, also called gré in Occitan. It is the set of vineyards whose land is bordered by the Mediterranean and spread over 46 communes. These vineyards use the same grape varieties, including Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre.
Finally, the production consists mainly of red wines. The aromas vary according to the properties of the fruit. If you are planning a visit to the Montpellier wine cellars, 48 private cellars and 5 cooperative cellars are waiting for you. It is up to you to make your choice according to your itinerary.
Cellars to visit in Montpellier
If you pass through this beautiful city, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a Montpellier wine tasting. Here are some cellars that will not leave you indifferent.
Nestled in a beautiful landscape on the outskirts of Montpellier, Château de Fourques has a large 50 hectare vineyard. It is a family estate which, since the first generation, has been run by women.
Today, Lise Fons-Vincent is at the head of the estate, with her daughter Jeanne. Both of them lead a team of winemakers, united by their passion for wine. During your stay at the château, you will be able to taste white, rosé and red wines. The house also offers varietal vinegars, wine confits and grape seed oil.
It is a small property run by Florent Granier. If you have the opportunity to do a cellar visit in Montpellier, don't miss it. Florent and his team use a "reasoned" culture to run the 7 hectare estate.
Florent Granier has already worked with Château Labégorce Margaux. After about fifteen busy years, he decided to buy the Clos Sorian in order to manage the vineyard. The two wines of the terroir are two appellations with another rosé and two other vins de pays.
Domaine Massilan
This vineyard belongs to the Reboul family and is located in the Hérault region, north-east of Montpellier. Covering an area of 50 hectares, the vines give birth to Vins de Pays d'Oc, a label known throughout the world. The cellar is open to the public who are welcomed in a friendly atmosphere.
The team will make you discover the terroir and all its secrets, as other artisanal products are also exploited there. As for the wines, you will be able to taste the Chardonnay n°1, the Entre 2 Eaux, Les 3 Pointes, the Rouge Cerise, the Cuvée de Nautile and many others.
Some of these winemakers wines are available Buy wine online