Terraces du Larzac French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Terrasses du Larzac is a high-altitude Languedoc appellation at the foot of the Larzac plateau, producing some of the region's freshest and most elegant red wines.
More info about Terraces du Larzac
Geographic position
Southern France, in the Hérault department, northwest of Montpellier, on terraces between the Larzac plateau and the Hérault valley, around Aniane, Montpeyroux, Saint-Saturnin and the Lac du Salagou.
Origin & history
Monks of the abbeys of Aniane and Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, founded around 800 AD, developed the vineyards. Long part of the Coteaux du Languedoc, Terrasses du Larzac was recognised as a named terroir in 2005 and became a full AOC in 2014. The area gained fame through estates such as Mas de Daumas Gassac.
Wines & grape varieties
Red wine only, blending at least three of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan and Cinsault. Expect black fruit, garrigue, liquorice and fresh, fine tannins.
Climate & soil
Mediterranean climate cooled by cold air from the Larzac plateau, with very large day-night temperature swings. Limestone scree, schist, red ruffe clay and basalt.
Wine region: Languedoc-Roussillon
Grape varieties: Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache Noir, Mourvèdre, Syrah