Gard

Gard is a beautiful French department located in Languedoc and the Rhône Valley. Named after the Gardon River, the coastal region overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and extends into the hills inland, resulting in a myriad of terroirs. There’s no doubt that IGP Gard is one of the best-known modern wine appellations in southern France, and it’s because its wines are as varied as its geography. The warm Mediterranean breeze, the cold mountain air, and the varied soils come together to allow high-quality grape growing. In the hands of talented winemakers, Gard is more popular than ever; besides, the region’s wines represent extraordinary value. History of Gard Gard was one of the first Roman settlements in southern France. The area was developed as early as 118 BC. Dominating the Mediterranean coast and the access to the Rhône Valley, Gard has always had cultural, strategic and commercial significance. Although Gard’s ports were already important hubs for international commerce, in the 19th century, the construction of railways connected the region with the rest of France; the area experienced accelerated growth, and its vineyards started to gain significance. While still not an AOP, Gard has been a well-regarded department-level IGP since 2009, focused on wines made with local Mediterranean and Southern France varietals. The Grapes in Gard Grape growers in Gard produce local red and white varietals, including Grenache, Syrah, Carignan and Mourvèdre. Red grapes are far more popular than white varietals. However, international varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc have been planted increasingly aiming at competing with the new world. Although winemakers in the region traditionally blend grapes to create a local style, mono-varietal wines are common in Gard. From contemplative wines suitable for special occasions to easy sippers, wineries in Gard offer variety; producers in the area have a lot of freedom at the IGP level. The Terroir in Gard Gard is a unique department as it experiences both, the warm and humid Mediterranean climate and the more arid climate typical of the Rhône Valley. The foothills inland receive more rain and are generally colder than the areas near the coast. Mont Aigoual and Mont Bouquet are landmarks and shape the climate around them, while the Garrigue flatlands are easier to cultivate. There are few regions in the area with such climatic diversity, resulting in more freedom for grape growers and winemakers to experiment. Generally, the only thing wines from Gard IGP have in common is their high quality and reasonable pricing. Wine Styles in Gard Winemakers in Gard produce red, white and rosé wine. The IGP’s regulations allow for a wide range of grape varietals and styles, resulting in an ample wine catalogue with selections for all needs and palates. Red wine is the most prominent style in the area, as red grapes ripen beautifully in the warm area. The wines can be youthful and easy to drink or memorable, but they always have ripe fruit aromas, elevated alcohol and a full body. Gard wines are versatile at the table and are best enjoyed with grilled red or white meat. Gard Wine Guide