


t
is not by accident that the Minervois region of southern
France brings to mind the Roman Empire because the name
comes from the ancient city of Minerve, a fortified city
built by the Romans and dedicated to the goddess of wisdom.
Rich and prosperous, from the Roman period on, the Minervois
region has been one of the best know areas of southern France
(originally referred to as "la Gaule Narbonnaise".
It is
true that its wine, descended from one of the first vineyards
planted in Languedoc-Roussillon, has been appreciated far
beyond its borders, since Pliny the Younger, in the 1st
century A.D., preferred it more than any other.
In the 15th century A.D., Nicolas de la Jugie, Lord of La
Livinière and of Ferrals, Baron of Rieux, provided
his uncle, Clement VI (who was the pope at Avignon), with
wines from the Minervois region.

Throughout the centuries, wines from the Minervois region
have traditionally been served at the tables of the kings
of France.
During the Middle Ages, the Minervois region went through
a difficult time, particularly during the Albigensien crusade.
Minerve,
the historic capital of the Minervois region, was profoundly
and tragically touched by this conflict.
In fact, on July 12, 1210, under siege by Simon de Montfort,
180 "Perfect Ones" chose to be burned at the stake
rather than renounce their Cathari faith.

Such
are the people of the Minervois region. They are proud of
their heritage, faithful to their traditions, and motivated
by the same will to succeed.