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Minervois

Minervois AOC gets its name from the scenic medieval village of Minerve. It is a small sub-region of Languedoc-Roussillon within France's Pays d'Oc IGP. Vineyards are planted on the slopes of Massif Central, benefitting from various altitudes and diverse soil types. The climate ranges from cool, Atlantic-influenced conditions in the northwest to dry, Mediterranean heat in the southeast. Wines here must be blends of at least two varieties. The most popular styles are oak-aged, spicy, fruit-driven red blends of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Other common varieties include Lledoner Pelut, Carignan and Cinsault. Crisp white wine blends are produced in lower volumes using Vermentino, Roussanne, Marsanne and Grenache Blanc. AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) is the most prestigious of the quality tiers within France’s wine classification system. AOC-designated wines must follow multiple different rules on a broad range of topics. Wines are regulated on the appellation, varietal inclusion, production methods, alcohol levels, vineyard planting density and age of the vineyard.