A "coteaux" means that a hill is covered by vines.

Coteaux du Languedoc has a very long history. The Greeks planted there probably the first vine in France. It was 500 years B.C. A long time before the Romans, although they dramatically improved the wine making process themselves.

Coteaux du Languedoc is a large wine area, from Narbonne in the west to the edge of Camargue in the east and up to the Cévennes mountains. Actually the area is so large that Coteaux du Languedoc is subdivided into the following sub-appellations:

Faugères and Saint Chinian have their own appellation because of the characteristics and history of their wines.

Although the 20th century was tough for wine makers because of the poor quality and the huge production, the 21th century marks a new era: less production, more quality, more grape varieties (such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier or Merlot) and more new techniques. Today, Coteaux du Languedoc is one of the most look-after appellation in France and this should continue for the next coming years.

Virgile's Vineyard A year in the Languedoc Wine Country by Patrick Moon Inheriting a neglected house in South of France, the author embarks on a tour of Languedoc and finds out that the whole wine region is working towards quality, making one of the most exciting and affordable wine. Click here !