A rich and renowned range of wines
The world-famous Rivesaltes region is an emblematic place for the production of typical wines that have been gracing our tables for centuries now!
Rivesaltes is situated in an ideal geographical location for the production of quality wines: a dry, sunny climate all year round, mild winters, low rainfall and a dry north-north-westerly wind, the "tramontane", which cools the vines in summer. Since ancient times, this propitious land has produced a wide range of wines, in particular "Vins Doux Naturels". Red, rosé, white, rancio, hors d'âge... your taste buds will be spoilt for choice!
Five certified appellations
produced on the Rivesaltes terroir
- Rivesaltes PDO: the town whose name it bears is famous for this wine! It's one of the French capitals of Vins Doux Naturels, of which this PDO is a part. This sweet, fresh wine stands out for its specific aromas of leather, tobacco, roasted coffee and cocoa, with hints of dried fruit such as walnuts, almonds, grapes and dried apricots.
- Muscat de Rivesaltes PDO: this is the other appellation for which the town is famous. Rivesaltes is even known as the Muscat capital of the world! What makes it special? Unlike France's other Muscats, it's made from Muscat Blanc Petit Grains and Muscat d'Alexandrie. Sweet and fresh, this sweet wine stands out for its ripe, exotic fruit, floral and citrus aromas.
- AOP Côtes du Roussillon: These dry wines, produced in Rivesaltes and throughout the Roussillon plain, range from red to white, rosé and even rancio. Unlike Vins Doux Naturels, which are best drunk as an aperitif or with dessert, these wines are best enjoyed at the table during a meal.
- IGP Côtes Catalanes: Also a dry wine, this range is produced throughout the department's vineyards, and is available in red, rancio, rosé, white or dry muscat.
Winemakers passionate about their terroir
Rivesaltes boasts a cooperative winery, five private wineries, an agricultural college, a wine merchant and a wine shop. A host of wine professionals are on hand to welcome you and pass on their passion, acquired over decades and generations. From the 19th century onwards, Rivesaltes developed essentially around its winegrowing activity: brokers, merchants, coopers, tinkers, hauliers, cartwrights, farriers, cellar merchants, station employees... and of course winegrowers, made up the local workforce. Today, men and women continue to perpetuate ancestral winemaking know-how, while innovating a range of noble, modern wines, respecting the environment, or using biodynamic methods.
Tasting? A tour? It's all possible!
Meet the professionals in their boutique, who will be delighted to let you taste the fruit of their land. Some also offer private or group tours of their cellars and wineries. Don't hesitate to ask!
CLOS DES FEES ESTATE
The estate lies at the foot of the blue cliffs of Vingrau, a magical and mysterious place where...
DOMAINE BOUDAU
Family estate located in the heart of Rivesaltes for 3 generations. Véronique and Pierre welcome you...
CAZES HOUSE
Since 1895, Maison Cazes has been growing vines in Rivesaltes, in the heart of Roussillon, between...
DOMAINE DE ROMBEAU
Winegrowing estate for 500 years, 80 hectares of sustainable cultivation, part of which is in conversion...
Celebrating wine!
With such a rich and singular terroir, it seems important to celebrate all these nectars in the right way so that they can be enjoyed to the full!
The Vendanges Littéraires are an opportunity to bring together two heritages: wine and books. For two days, it's a delight to stroll through the heart of the town, where authors and winemakers, local produce and publishers' stalls offer their temptations. The festival has become an institution in Rivesaltes, now in its 20th year!
Apricot and Muscat Festival
two emblematic terroirs of the city
While Rivesaltes is renowned for its precious Muscat, it also produces delicious apricots. Producers, tastings, competitions and events are on hand to help you enjoy these two sun-drenched products!
The Saint-André Festival
a weekend of celebration combining Catalan traditions and culture
Cobla, sardana rounds, dances, concerts, mass... Each year, this patron saint's day is also the occasion to celebrate the new vintage of Muscat de Noël, with a blessing and tasting.
