Discover Béziers: A Wine Lover’s Paradise in Languedoc-Roussillon
Béziers, nestled in the heart of Languedoc-Roussillon, offers a captivating blend of rich history and world-class wines. This ancient city, with its stunning cathedral and vibrant wine culture, serves as an ideal base for exploring the region’s renowned vineyards and charming villages.
Towns and Villages
Béziers
The city’s old town is a maze of narrow streets and historical landmarks. Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint-Nazaire, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.
Pézenas
This picturesque town, just 20 minutes from Béziers, is known for its well-preserved medieval center and connection to playwright Molière. Explore its artisan workshops and weekly Saturday market.
Minerve
A stunning hilltop village surrounded by deep gorges, Minerve is the heart of the Minervois wine region. Its dramatic setting and Cathar history make it a must-visit destination.
Wine Producers
Château de Raissac
Located just outside Béziers, this family-owned estate offers guided tours and tastings of their organic wines. Their wine museum showcases antique winemaking equipment.
Domaine de la Clapière
This boutique winery in nearby Montagnac produces exceptional red and white wines. Book a tasting to sample their award-winning Languedoc blends.
Mas des Quernes
Situated in the Faugères appellation, this small producer focuses on biodynamic practices. Their intimate tastings provide insight into sustainable winemaking methods.
Accommodations
Hôtel Particulier Beziers
This boutique hotel in a restored 19th-century mansion offers luxurious rooms and a tranquil courtyard garden. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring the city.
Château Les Carrasses
For a unique wine country experience, stay at this renovated 19th-century wine estate. It features self-catering suites, a winery, and stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
La Distillerie de Pézenas
This charming B&B in Pézenas occupies a former distillery. Its stylish rooms and peaceful garden provide a relaxing base for wine touring.
Dining
L’Ambassade
Located in Béziers’ old town, this Michelin-starred restaurant showcases local ingredients in innovative dishes. Their wine list features an extensive selection of Languedoc wines.
Le Patio
This cozy bistro in Pézenas offers traditional Languedoc cuisine with a modern twist. Enjoy al fresco dining in their charming courtyard during summer months.
La Table de Gustave
Situated in the village of Gabian, this rustic restaurant specializes in regional dishes paired with local wines. Their farm-to-table approach highlights the best of Languedoc flavors.
Wine Shops & Bars
La Cave de l’Orb
This well-stocked wine shop in Béziers offers an extensive selection of local wines. Knowledgeable staff provide expert advice on regional varietals and appellations.
Le Wine Bar
Located in Pézenas, this cozy bar features a rotating list of Languedoc wines by the glass. Enjoy wine flights paired with local cheese and charcuterie boards.
Vinothèque de la Maison des Vins
Situated in the historic center of Béziers, this wine shop and tasting room showcases wines from small, family-owned producers in the region.
Other Shops
Les Halles de Béziers
This vibrant covered market offers a wide array of local products, including olives, cheeses, and cured meats. Perfect for picnic supplies or edible souvenirs.
L’Atelier des Saveurs
Located in Pézenas, this gourmet food shop specializes in regional products like honey, olive oil, and artisanal preserves.
La Maison Méditerranéenne des Vins
This shop in Béziers sells wine-related accessories, books, and gifts. Find unique corkscrews, decanters, and locally-made pottery.
Attractions
Canal du Midi
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers scenic boat tours and bike rides along its tree-lined banks. Stop at canalside villages and wineries.
Oppidum d’Ensérune
Explore this ancient hilltop settlement near Béziers, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and the unique Étang de Montady.
Fontseriènes Locks
Witness a marvel of hydraulic engineering on the Canal du Midi. These nine locks form a “water staircase” for boats to navigate.
Events
Fête du Vin Nouveau
Celebrate the release of new wines in Béziers every November. Enjoy tastings, food pairings, and live music in the old town.
Pézenas Wine Fair
Held annually in July, this event showcases wines from the Languedoc region. Meet winemakers and attend educational seminars.
Faugères Wine Festival
This two-day festival in August features tastings, vineyard tours, and local cuisine. Experience the unique terroir of the Faugères appellation.
Appellations
Languedoc AOC
The largest appellation in the region, producing a wide range of red, white, and rosé wines. Look for blends featuring Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre.
Faugères AOC
Known for its schist soils, this appellation produces full-bodied red wines and aromatic whites. Grenache and Syrah dominate the blends.
Saint-Chinian AOC
This diverse appellation offers both schist and limestone terroirs. Try the bold red blends and fresh, mineral-driven whites.
Grape Varieties
Béziers-Languedoc-Roussillon boasts a diverse array of grape varieties. Carignan, Grenache, and Syrah dominate red wine production.
For white wines, Picpoul, Viognier, and Marsanne thrive in the region’s Mediterranean climate.
Main Wine Styles
- Red blends: Full-bodied, spicy wines with ripe fruit flavors
- Rosé: Crisp, refreshing wines perfect for summer sipping
- White wines: Aromatic and mineral-driven, often with citrus notes
- Fortified wines: Sweet Muscat de Frontignan and Banyuls
Food Specialties
The region’s cuisine pairs perfectly with its wines. Cassoulet, a hearty bean and meat stew, is a local favorite.
Seafood dishes like oysters from Bouzigues and grilled sardines complement the area’s white and rosé wines.
Drives & Walks
Scenic Drives
- Route des Vignobles: Explore picturesque vineyards and charming villages
- Coastal Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean
Wine Walks
- Sentier des Vignerons: A marked trail through the vineyards of Saint-Chinian
- Pic Saint-Loup hike: Combine wine tasting with stunning landscapes
Itineraries
3-Day Wine Tour
- Day 1: Explore Béziers and visit nearby wineries
- Day 2: Tour the Minervois and Saint-Chinian appellations
- Day 3: Discover coastal wines and seafood in Sète
Week-Long Adventure
Combine wine tasting with cultural experiences, including visits to historic sites and nature reserves.
Don’t miss the Canal du Midi for a unique perspective on the region’s wine heritage.
Getting There & Around
Fly into Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport or Béziers Cap d’Agde Airport for easy access to the region. Rent a car for flexibility in exploring vineyards and villages.
Use the efficient TGV train network to reach major towns. Local buses connect smaller villages, but schedules can be limited.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) offer ideal weather for wine tasting and outdoor activities. Avoid August when crowds peak and some wineries close.
Plan visits around wine harvest festivals in September for a unique experience.
Sustainability Efforts
Many wineries in Béziers-Languedoc-Roussillon are adopting organic and biodynamic practices. Look for certifications like “AB” (Agriculture Biologique) on labels.
Support eco-friendly wineries that use solar power and water conservation techniques.
Language Tips
Learn basic French wine terms: “rouge” (red), “blanc” (white), “rosé” (pink), “santé” (cheers).
Locals appreciate efforts to speak French. Download a language app for quick translations during tastings.
Further Resources
- Languedoc-Roussillon Wine Council: Official resource for appellation information and wine routes
- Béziers Tourism Office: Up-to-date event listings and local travel tips
- Wine Folly: In-depth guides on grape varieties and wine styles of the region
