100% togetherness!
At the foot of the Rocher des Vierges,
the vineyards in this appellation produce delightful wines. And that’s not the only reason to go explore!
From Montpellier, head North-West to reach this appellation area which takes its name from the village of Saint-Saturnin-de-Lucian. If you’re aiming to get a precise picture of the local geography, then pull on some walking shoes and climb to the top of the Rocher des Vierges which peaks at 536 metres above sea level. From this promontory amidst the lower foothills of the Larzac, you can survey the immediate landscape before looking out over the Languedoc plains and down as far as the sea – the views are breath taking. The appellation’s vineyards extend over four villages – Saint-Saturnin-de-Lucian, of course, but also Jonquières, Saint-Guiraud and Arboras.
1985
4
villages
122 HA
6 independent wineries,
1 co-operative.
Red
62%
rosé
38%
syrah
grenache
mourvèdre
carignan
cinsault
syrah
grenache
mourvèdre
carignan
cinsault
for more information:
www.saint-saturnin-en-languedoc.comAside from the human factor, which is still as dynamic today, the identity of the Languedoc Saint-Saturnin appellation stems from its extremely consistent soils, its due South aspect and its location on an extensive clay-limestone terrace with well-draining soils. The cool breeze that blows down from the Larzac is also one of its ‘trademarks’ – during harvest time in particular, it promotes balanced grapes that do not swelter under the torrid heat, subsequently producing wines steeped in freshness and elegance.
With its magnificent landscapes backed by the Larzac uplands, its welcoming winegrowers and remarkable quality red and rosé wines, Saint-Saturnin has plenty of persuasive arguments to convince visitors who haven’t already done so to discover, or rediscover an appellation which will most certainly continue to attract attention.
The appellation’s enterprising spirit far pre-dates its official inception in 1985. Without going back to Roman times, the creation of the co-operative in 1950 gave it a decisive boost, personified by Saint-Saturnin winegrowers who have constantly blazed the trail – they were among the first to bottle their wines in 1954 and sell them under their own label.