AOP Pic Saint Loup
where Languedoc reaches a peak
The appellation area is set between the Cevennes and the Mediterranean,
allowing it to soak up multiple influences and deliver remarkable wines
with assertive characters and a distinctive identity.
Foundation
January
2017
Territory
17
villages
Production
1500 HA
Producers
83 independent wineries,
3 co-operatives.
Colours
Red
90%
rosé
10%
Main grape varieties
authorized for the reds
syrah
grenache
mourvèdre + cinsaut
CARIGNAN
counoise
morrastel
Main grape varieties
authorized for the rosés
syrah
grenache
mourvèdre + cinsaut
grenache gris
counoise
morrastel
more information:
www.pic-saint-loup.comterroir
Some of the appellation’s most famous villages – Valflaunès, Lauret and Claret – unfurl their vineyards amidst the foothills, whilst others cover less challenging terrain. The result is a myriad of vineyard sites, a genuine geological jigsaw of soils running the gamut from hard or softer limestone, dolomites, conglomerates, river-washed limestone scree and marl to ‘gravettes’ in the vicinity of Corconne.
The climate follows more of a single thread defined by significant diurnal shift during veraison, offering ideal conditions for crafting wines that are ripe with a southern accent, yet very well-balanced. Vineyards, garrigue, olive groves and pine forests, sleepy country villages with their light-hued houses and remote stone farmhouses ensconced in stunning valleys form the appellation’s backdrop.
History
So how do people factor into the equation? Healthy competition between winegrowers – both locals and outsiders – brought Pic Saint Loup wines to the attention of enthusiasts way before 2017 when they officially secured appellation status, the Holy Grail of wines. As early as the 1990s, a clutch of pioneering winegrowers broke with the tendency in Languedoc to produce high-yield wines and chose to go down the quality route. Others followed suit, the movement gained traction and a highly dynamic group was formed, paving the way for AOP status and the incredibly well-deserved success of the wines.