IGP Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert
The must-see destination!
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is not just a mecca
for holidaymakers in Languedoc – it is also set in the heart of a very interesting, namesake IGP!
Foundation
August 1
2009
Territory
66
communes
Production
47 850 hL
Producers
97 independent wineries,
9 co-operatives and
10 wine merchants
Colours
Red
29%
Rosé
43%
White
28%
Main grape varieties
authorized for the reds
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cinsault
Grenache
Mourvedre
Merlot
Main grape varieties
authorized for the rosés
Mourvedre
Cinsault
Pinot Noir
Grenache
Marselan
Main grape varieties
authorized for the whites
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Marsanne
Roussanne
Viognier
terroir
The local geology has a dominant theme – limestone, in all its variations. Climate often plays second fiddle to geology when referring to ‘terroir’, but here it is a crucial aspect. In these inland parts of Languedoc the maritime influence is not as strong as it is elsewhere and diurnal shift is significant and ideal for promoting balance in the IGP-endorsed white, rosé and red wines.
Surrounded by the garrigue, the vines and their fruit are inevitably instilled with its delectable aromas. The wines display an endearing roundness that offers a token of their deep-rooted Mediterranean identity.
History
A stage along the Camino de Santiago, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is an absolute treasure of Romanesque art, warranting it a listing as Unesco World Heritage. The Romans came here, with their knowledge of winegrowing under their belt. In the Middle Ages, Benedictine monks from the abbeys of Aniane and Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert played a pivotal role as vineyard custodians. Subsequently, at the end of the 19th century, booming trade also secured the future of vineyards.