Narbonne, the jewel of Occitanie, is nestled in the heart of a renowned wine-growing region. Wine lovers and oenophiles will find what they are looking for by traveling the wine routes that crisscross the surroundings of this historic city. Embark on a taste journey through the Languedoc vineyards, where each glass tells the story of a unique terroir.
Charming accommodation in the heart of Narbonne
Before setting off on the wine routes, it is essential to choose comfortable and well-located accommodation. Narbonne offers two choice options for wine tourism enthusiasts:
- La maison gustave : This charming bed & breakfast located in downtown Narbonne offers an ideal starting point for your wine explorations. With its warm atmosphere and central location, La maison gustave allows you to fully enjoy the city while being close to the wine routes.
- Villa Ambrosia : This elegant guest house, also located in the heart of Narbonne, offers refined accommodation for travelers seeking comfort and authenticity. Villa Ambrosia is perfectly positioned to allow you to discover both the urban heritage of Narbonne and the wine treasures of the region.
These two establishments guarantee you a pleasant stay and total immersion in the Narbonne art of living, while offering you easy access to the different wine routes.
The main wine routes to discover
The Coteaux de Narbonne Wine Route
The Coteaux de Narbonne appellation, recognized in 1982, extends mainly to the east of Narbonne. This terroir benefits from a Mediterranean climate ideal for viticulture, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The vineyards are concentrated in five communes: Narbonne, Cuxac-d'Aude, Ouveillan, Moussan and Marcorignan.
The grape varieties used are a harmonious blend of traditional varieties, including:
- Reds: Merlot, Grenache, Syrah, Pinot Noir
- Whites: Chardonnay, Chenin, Mauzac, Marsanne, Ugni Blanc, Viognier
This diversity of grape varieties allows winegrowers to create complex and balanced blends, perfectly reflecting the Mediterranean character of the region.
The La Clape Wine Route
The AOC La Clape is a young but promising appellation, recognized in 2015. The terroir extends over 17 km between Narbonne and the coast, encompassing the La Clape massif which culminates at an altitude of 214 meters.
What makes La Clape unique is its fascinating geological history. An ancient island in Roman times, it is today characterized by:
- Thick scrubland
- Impressive limestone cliffs
- Winding valleys that offer varied microclimates
The climate of La Clape is particularly favorable to viticulture, with:
- A wind present 200 days a year, which naturally protects the vines from diseases
- Exceptional sunshine of 3000 hours per year
These unique conditions have allowed the cultivation of vines in this region since Antiquity, giving rise to wines of remarkable quality and typicity.
The Corbières Wine Route
The Corbières appellation, one of the most important in Languedoc, offers a diversity of landscapes and terroirs to discover around Narbonne. This wine route includes several thematic itineraries, each offering a unique experience:
- The route of ponds and the sea: A stroll between vineyards and the Mediterranean
- The route to the Cathar sites: A journey through the medieval history of the region
- The Boutenac vintage route: Discovering an exceptional terroir
- The Alaric route: A journey to the foot of the emblematic Corbières mountain
- The road from Narbonne to Lézignan-Corbières: A crossing of the heart of the appellation
These itineraries allow you to explore dozens of cellars and estates, offering complete immersion in the world of Corbières wines.
The best times to visit the vineyards
Each season offers a unique experience in the Narbonne vineyards. Here is a guide to choosing the best time for your wine tour:
Spring (April to May)
- Flowering vineyards provide an enchanting visual spectacle
- Green landscapes are at their peak
- It's a great time to avoid summer crowds
- Possibility of participating in spring work in the vineyards, such as trellising
Take advantage of this season to stay at La maison gustave and explore the flowering vineyards while enjoying the mild Narbonne climate.
Summer (June to August)
- The most popular season, with a festive and warm atmosphere
- Numerous events and wine festivals throughout the region
- Possibility of participating in the first harvests from the end of August, depending on the vintages
- Ideal for combining wine tourism and seaside activities on the nearby coast
Villa Ambrosia offers a refreshing haven of peace after your days exploring the vineyards under the summer sun.
Fall (September to November)
- The vineyards are adorned with magnificent autumn colors
- It's the time of harvest and winemaking, offering an immersive experience
- Fewer crowds and more affordable prices than in summer
- Ideal temperature for walks in the vineyards
Winter (December to March)
- A calmer period, ideal for personalized tours of the estates
- Possibility of participating in winter work in the vineyards, such as pruning
- Attractive prices and more intimate welcome in the cellars
- The opportunity to discover aging wines in their best tasting context
Whatever season you choose, the vineyards around Narbonne promise an experience rich in discoveries. Don't forget to book your tours and tastings in advance, especially during the most popular months of summer and fall. In addition, a stay at La maison gustave or La villa Ambrosia will guarantee you a warm welcome and optimal comfort to fully enjoy your wine tourism experience.
Wine events and festivals not to be missed
The Narbonne region vibrates to the rhythm of numerous events celebrating local wine and gastronomy. Here is a selection of unmissable events:
Jazz Festival at l'Hospitalet
Every summer for more than 20 years, Château l'Hospitalet, located between Narbonne and the Mediterranean Sea, has hosted this unique festival. It harmoniously combines:
- Open-air jazz concerts, in the heart of the vineyards
- Tastings of the estate's wines
- A friendly and festive atmosphere
This festival attracts the greatest French and international jazz artists, offering an unforgettable musical and wine experience. Book your stay at La villa Ambrosia to take full advantage of this event while benefiting from quality accommodation in the heart of Narbonne.
Harvest festival in Gruissan
In October, the charming village of Gruissan celebrates the end of the grape harvest with a traditional festival. In the program :
- A large lively procession
- Folkloric entertainment
- Tastings of new wines
- A moment of intergenerational conviviality
Maison Gustave warmly welcomes you after a day of festivities in Gruissan, just a few kilometers from Narbonne.
Kiwanis Wine Show
Organized in October at the Palais du Travail in Narbonne, this show is an opportunity to:
- Discover the richness of local wines
- Meet the region’s winegrowers
- Participate in tasting workshops
- Support Kiwanis Charitable Actions
Take advantage of the proximity of La villa Ambrosia to participate in this event while offering you a comfortable stay in the heart of the city.
Fascinating Weekend Vineyards & Discoveries
This national event takes place locally in October, offering over 4 days:
- Unusual experiences in the heart of the Aude vineyards
- Visits to cellars and estates
- Thematic tastings
- Activities combining wine, gastronomy and heritage
Toques and Bell Towers
In spring, this popular event in the Limoux appellation allows you to:
- Visit a different village each year
- Taste the wines of the appellation
- Attend a prestigious wine auction
- Discover the alliance between architectural and wine heritage
Tastes in Minervois
In September, this gourmet event brings together:
- A hundred winegrowers from Minervois
- Great chefs
- Wine tastings accompanied by refined dishes
- A celebration of local gastronomy
These events punctuate the wine year around Narbonne, offering many opportunities to discover the richness of local wines in a festive and friendly atmosphere. Whether you choose La maison gustave or La villa Ambrosia as a base for your stay, you will be ideally located to enjoy all these events.
Conclusion
The wine routes around Narbonne offer a sensory journey through varied landscapes and unique terroirs. Whether you are an enlightened amateur or simply curious, you will find what you are looking for by exploring the Coteaux de Narbonne, La Clape or Corbières. Each season brings its share of discoveries, from spring flowers to autumn colors, including the excitement of the harvest.
Don't forget to plan your visit around the many events that bring the region to life throughout the year. From jazz in the vineyards to traditional harvest festivals, these events are all opportunities to experience the wine soul of Narbonne and its region.
For an unforgettable stay, choose the accommodation that suits you best: La maison gustave for an authentic Bed & Breakfast experience, or La villa Ambrosia for a refined stay in a guest house. These two quality establishments guarantee you a warm welcome and an ideal location for exploring the wine treasures of Narbonne.
So, to your health and have a good trip on the Narbonne wine routes!