This appellation is produced on terrain backed by the Cévennes foothills in the Garrigues scrubland north of Montpellier, 30 km from the Mediterranean coast. Pic Saint-Loup (658m) and the Causse de l’Hortus (512m) overlook the vines of the appellation growing at altitudes of around 150m, on soils of hard limestone, soft limestone, conglomerate, dolomite (sedimentary rock ), limestone scree of river origin, and marl. 13 districts can use this designation, recognized as VDQS in 1955 and AOC in 1985.
The Pic Saint Loup wine producers submitted an application for a specific AOC in 2001. The application is still in hand. A large majority of red wines is produced from Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre to which up to 10% Carignan and Cinsault can be added. The blend of at least two of the main grape varieties is required.
