IGP Sable de Camargue

History of the IGP Sable-de-Camargue

The Protected Geographical Indication (IGP) Sable-de-Camargue is a French wine appellation located in the historic Camargue region in Languedoc. The winemaking history of this region dates back several centuries, with a unique geographical feature: the vineyards are planted on sandy soils. The IGP Sable-de-Camargue was officially recognized in 2009 to highlight the specificity of wines produced in this protected natural environment. Viticulture in this region is characterized by techniques that respect the fragile ecosystem of the Camargue, where the vines benefit from an ideal microclimate to produce wines with distinctive aromatic profiles.

Climate and Terroir of the IGP Sable-de-Camargue

Climate: The climate of the IGP Sable-de-Camargue is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers, mild winters, and abundant sunshine. This region also benefits from the influence of sea breezes, which bring coolness and humidity, mitigating the effects of the summer heat.

Soils: The unique terroir of this IGP consists mainly of sandy soils, resulting from marine and alluvial deposits. These soils allow for excellent water drainage, preventing moisture stagnation, which is beneficial for grape quality. Additionally, the low organic matter in sandy soils encourages the production of grapes with concentrated aromas.

Grape Varieties of the IGP Sable-de-Camargue

The IGP Sable-de-Camargue permits a wide range of grape varieties, allowing for great diversity in wine styles. For red and rosé wines, Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cinsault, and Merlot are the most commonly used varieties. For white wines, the primary grapes include Grenache Blanc, Rolle (Vermentino), Clairette, Viognier, and Chardonnay. These varieties produce fresh and aromatic white wines, often characterized by a vibrant acidity.

Wine Styles of the IGP Sable-de-Camargue

Red Wines: These wines exhibit ruby to purple hues. On the nose, they express aromas of red fruits (cherry, strawberry) and black fruits (blackcurrant, blackberry), complemented by spicy notes (pepper, licorice) and sometimes hints of garrigue. On the palate, they are generally smooth, with fine tannins and good roundness, making them very pleasant to drink when young.

Rosé Wines: The rosé and "gris" wines of the IGP Sable-de-Camargue display pale pink colors. On the nose, these wines reveal aromas of red berries (raspberry, strawberry) and citrus, accompanied by light floral notes. Fresh, light, thirst-quenching, and well-balanced, these rosé wines are perfect for sunny days!

White Wines: These wines generally present a pale yellow color with green reflections. The nose is marked by aromas of white-fleshed fruits (peach, pear), citrus (lemon, grapefruit), and white flowers. The IGP Sable-de-Camargue white wines are fresh and fruity, with a lively acidity that adds tension to the palate.

Best Food Pairings with IGP Sable-de-Camargue Wines

Follow our recommendations for the best food and wine pairings with a bottle of Languedoc wine from a domain or château in IGP Sable-de-Camargue red, white, or rosé:

White Wine: Grilled mackerel fillets, oysters, octopus salad.

Rosé or Gris Wine: Stuffed tomatoes, tuna carpaccio.

Red Wine: Roast chicken, pizza or calzone, paella.