IGP Pays d'Oc French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
IGP Pays d'Oc is France's largest protected geographical indication, covering the whole of Languedoc-Roussillon and famous for fruit-forward, single-variety wines that offer exceptional value.
More info about IGP Pays d'Oc
Geographic position
Southern France, across the Aude, Gard, Hérault and Pyrénées-Orientales departments (and part of Lozère), from the Rhône delta to the Spanish border, between the Mediterranean and the Cévennes and Pyrenees mountains.
Origin & history
Greek and Roman settlers planted vines along this coast over 2,000 years ago, and the region was long France's largest source of bulk wine. The Vin de Pays d'Oc was created in 1987, pioneering varietal labelling in France with grapes like Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet. It became the IGP Pays d'Oc in 2009 and today produces most of France's varietal wines.
Wines & grape varieties
Red, rosé, white and sparkling wines from over 50 permitted varieties, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Grenache, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Expect ripe, sunny fruit and approachable, easy-drinking styles.
Climate & soil
Hot, dry Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine. Limestone, schist, clay, gravel and sand.
Wine region: Languedoc-Roussillon
Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache Noir, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Viognier