Vineyards, Grape Varieties and Winegrowers
The Faugères vineyard
Le Faugères vineyard is located north of Béziers, in the foothills of the Cévennes, between the appellations Saint-Chinian to the west and Languedoc Pezenas to the east. It runs around the villages of Faugères, Laurens or Cabrerolles, on hills of medium altitude which culminate between 300 and 400 m.
The climate is Mediterranean. Subject to alternating hot, dry summers and mild winters, the vineyard benefits from regulating influences, tempered by the altitude and the air currents descending from the Cévennes mountains. The soils of grey and brown shale make the geological signature of the appellation. Forcing the vines to draw moisture from deep within the soil, this mineral substrate promotes the concentration of the juices. It gives Faugères wines a mineral freshness and tannic finesse characteristic of the appellation.
Yields of around 30 hectoliters per hectare guarantee quality viticulture. This is evidenced by the winemakers' adoption of the designation "Faugères – Grand Terroir de Schiste," which they reserve for their most representative wines, thus reinforcing their aspiration for a distinct cru identity.
Grape varieties of the appellation
The Faugères terroir is naturally dominated by Mediterranean red grape varieties. Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Mourvedre et Cinsault These grape varieties form the foundation of the appellation. Syrah lends its notes of red and black fruit and spice to the red and rosé wines. Grenache contributes roundness and a bouquet of ripe red fruit. Carignan structures the blends with its freshness and tannic framework. Mourvèdre adds depth and aging potential. Cinsault, for its part, contributes finesse and a crisp fruitiness, particularly appreciated in rosés.
white wines from Faugères highlight other southern grape varieties: Roussanne, Grenache blanc, Marsanne, Rolle , Clairette or, Viognier. Roussanne and Marsanne contribute volume and aromatic complexity, with floral and honeyed notes. Grenache Blanc and Clairette support structure and length on the palate, while Rolle—or Vermentino — brings freshness and citrus notes to the blends. Viognier enriches the aromatic palette with its accents of stone fruit and white flowers.
The wines of Faugères
THEAOP Faugeres is among the few appellations in Languedoc to produce wines in the three colours.
red wines They are, by tradition, largely predominant. They exhibit beautiful concentration, generous fruit ripeness, and a structuring freshness that lengthens the finish. The tannins, often tight but elegant, refine their finesse after a few years of aging, making them wines of seductive character.
rosé wines, Made from the same grape varieties, they offer profiles of crisp fruit and sweet spices. Depending on the winemaker's style, their colors range from pale pink to deeper hues. Among the rosé wines from LanguedocThey are distinguished by their pleasant tension and savory finish, inherited from schist soils. rosé wines from Faugères These are rosé wines for fine dining rather than simple thirst quenching.
white winesThe more recent additions to the appellation deserve attention. They are distinguished by aromas of white flowers, citrus, and yellow-fleshed fruits. On the palate, they offer a fresh and often slightly saline structure, inherited from the minerality of the soils and altitudes. Their expressive characteristics contribute to the rise of these more structured Mediterranean whites, equally suited to both meals and aperitifs.
In terms of food and wine pairings, the Faugères red wines They pair well with grilled or roasted meats, as well as with slow-cooked dishes inspired by garrigue cuisine, featuring thyme, rosemary, and olives. rosé wines They naturally find their place alongside composed salads, charcuterie boards, and grilled meats. white wines They happily accompany Mediterranean fish and shellfish, dishes made with sun-ripened vegetables and certain pressed cheeses.
Meetings with winemakers from the Faugères PDO
Mas Onésime: the “Jour Fruit” vintages
