HISTORY

VINEYARDS were created in Faugeres somewhat later than on the coast, where the Phoenicians introduced grape vines in the 6th Century BC. Some of the names of the original vineyards evoke memories of ancient Roman properties (La Jasse, Mont-marcou, Montabiau, Colombelle, etc.). The region was then devastated by the turnoil associated with the decline of the Roman Empire. These troubles continued during the Middle Ages, until the 8th Century AD. Having been affected by the barbarian invasions in 405 AD, the region did not recover until the 13th Century. This recovery coincided with a period of economic and demographic growth throughout most of Europe. A tumultuous wine-growing history. Unlike certain neighbouring appellations, Faugeres did not benefit from the presence of Benedictine monks. It was only in the 13th Century, with the growth in population, that land-clearance was increased. Even the hill-tops were cleared and innumerable dry-stone walls were erected to support the terraces. Up to the end of the 19th Century the region produced red wines known for their quality, along with a reputed brandy, "La Fine de Faugeres". The advent of large-scale wine-making, followed by the onset of the Second World War, led to a decline in the local wine based economy. However some wine-makers, more stubborn, more determined and more far-sighted than others, decided, under the guidance of Jean Vidal, mayor of Cabrerolles, to resist the attractions of quantity-based production as practised on the Beziers plain and to base their future on wines of quality. Thanks to these people, Faugeres was granted VDQS status on the 18th of May 1955 and on the 5th of May 1982, the area achieved AOC status. The Order of Faugeres. A brotherhood, The Order of Faugeres, was created in 1995. Its role, apart from spreading the good word about Faugeres wines, is to organise the great Faugeres wine auction at the "Fête du Grand Saint Jean", this takes place each year on the first Sunday in July. For the last three years the proceeds from this sale have been given to the Association for the Safeguard of Local Heritage in the High Cantons of the Herault. This association has supported the restorations of the FAUGERES WINDMILLS, the CHAPEL OF CABREROLLES CASTLE and other buildings which are part of the Faugeres heritage.