A visit to the city of Béziers will leave you with wonderful memories. Considered as the second most important protected area in France, it is full of architectural and historical treasures. Another important fact to know is that it is nestled among many vineyards.
Discovering Béziers
Overlooking the Orb and the Canal du Midi in the Hérault department, Béziers is considered the oldest city in France. It is said to be older than Marseille. This fact is corroborated by numerous archaeological excavations revealing that the area was already occupied by the Greeks in the 7th century B.C. Later, Roman civilization left its traces there. Amphitheatres and arenas are surrounded by religious buildings, reminders of the Crusades and the medieval era.
Over the centuries, the city has developed. In addition to the historical sites, there are also sites dedicated to culture. The museum of fine arts is home to famous sculptures and drawings. In Béziers, you will also find various theatres and concert halls.
The city abounds in green spaces. In particular, you can relax at the Plateau des Poètes, a large English-style park dating from 1867. And why not go to the island of Tabarka on the river Orb?
The city of Béziers and the Languedoc appellation
Béziers is surrounded by vineyards. These are part of the Languedoc appellation d'origine contrôlée. Covering 9,522 hectares, this AOC extends over 4 departments.
Due to its large surface area, this production area benefits from a wide variety of soils. Depending on the geographical location of the vineyard, the holdings have the right to clayey-limestone, sandy-limestone, schistous or soft soils. And thanks to the Mediterranean climate blowing through this wine-growing area, producers obtain a wide variety of red, rosé and white wines.
Different grape varieties are planted in the appellation. Bourboulenc B, Clairette B and Grenache Blanc are used to produce white wine. A combination with Roussanne B, Vermentino B and other grapes is possible.
For red wines, mourvèdre N, syrah N and grenache noir predominate. Finally, for rosé wines, winemakers use the same grape varieties as for reds to which they add other grapes.
Suggested estates for a cellar visit near Béziers
During your stay in the Hérault, don't miss the opportunity to visit the cellars around Béziers.
In Servian, make a stop at the Domaine de la Baume. The latter produces 7 cuvées on 190 hectares. Stroll around the estate and the cellars before tasting wines produced near Béziers.
Not far away, in Magalas, you will see the Moulin de Lène. This environmentally friendly estate will pleasantly surprise you. Here, you will observe the variety of grape varieties that will be transformed into exceptional drinks. You will also appreciate the cellar and the barrel cellar which have been refurbished to ensure the ecological vision of the owners. And finally, enjoy a tasting of the wines produced near Béziers.
Some of these winemakers wines are available Buy wine online