I.G.P.
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a protected geographical indication (IGP) in the northern part of the Hérault department, at the foot of the Larzac plateau and the foothills of the Cévennes. The production area extends over roughly fifty kilometres along the upper and middle valley of the Hérault river, across 71 communes shared between the Hérault and Gard departments. The vineyards, planted mostly between 100 and 150 metres of altitude, are framed by two limestone massifs, Mont Baudile to the west and Pic Saint-Loup to the east. Soils are predominantly limestone, with stony scree and secondary-era marls, alongside quaternary terraces along the river. Set back from the coast, the Mediterranean climate here is tempered, with annual rainfall of 800 to 900 mm and marked day-to-night temperature swings. The list of authorised grape varieties combines traditional Mediterranean varieties with grapes from other regions, such as cabernet sauvignon and merlot for reds, and chardonnay, sauvignon and viognier for whites. The appellation takes its name from the village of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, a UNESCO World Heritage site at the heart of the production area.
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87
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Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert produces still red, rosé and white wines, always marked by fruit aromas whose intensity varies with the grape varieties used. The reds, made with either long or short maceration, are vinified for soft structures with ripe, smooth and fine-grained tannins. The rosés and whites stand out for their balance of freshness and pronounced aromatic power. Across the appellation, the wines share a consistent freshness, whether intended for early drinking or for cellaring. The supple, fruit-driven reds pair well with grilled meats, charcuterie and white meats, while the lively, aromatic rosés and whites suit fish, shellfish, composed salads and Mediterranean cuisine.
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