Discover our grape varieties
Rhone wines derive their style, richness and originality from the diversity of the region's grape varieties. Learn all about them…
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There are more than 60 villages in France called Saint-Maurice. But who was he?
A Roman officer, recruited in Egypt, who refused to fight the Christian enemies of Emperor Maximian rather than break his promise never to engage in wanton slaughter. His cohort was decimated, and Saint Maurice himself was martyred at the beginning of the 3rd century. The little village of Saint-Maurice was built up around a vineyard that already existed in Gallo-Roman times, but which really began to develop in the 14th century. In the 18th century, Saint-Maurice wines came to prominence with the arrival of the “Tinto” (Mourvèdre) and Xérès grape varieties, which grew happily among the olive trees. The 170 hectares of vineyard grow on slopes, protected from late frosts and freezing fog.
History
1967
Birth of AOC Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint-Maurice
Numerous artefacts, including pottery, amphorae and coins, were found by archaeologists during excavations in Saint-Maurice-sur-Eygues in the 19th century. They show the significance of Roman colonisation in this area and its links to winegrowing. The village winery proudly displays an item unique in the Rhône Valley, a barrel dating from the 13th century. A charter drawn up in 1333 details the freedoms granted to the villagers in return for their feudal rights over the vineyards and their wines. Meanwhile in the early 18th century, the Marquis de La Charce, governor of Nyons, was fulsome in his praise of Saint-Maurice wines.
In 1953, the wines of Saint-Maurice became part of the Côtes du Rhône family, and in 1967 they were awarded Côtes du Rhône Villages with geographical name status.
Geography
Territory
The vineyards grow in the village of Saint-Maurice-sur-Eygues, close to the Nyons region in the Drôme département.
Climate
The climate is Mediterranean, sheltered from the Mistral wind, with northern and southern exposure. The vines enjoy maximum sunshine.
Soils
A particular geology
Clay/limestone with varying amounts of gravel; areas of lighter sandstone.
Key figures
Key figures of the appellation
Inter Rhône - Key Figures 2021
Discover our appellations
Find out about the Rhone vineyards : terroirs, soils, climate, grape varieties and, of course, flavours… as if you were visiting in person.