Discover the wines of the Duché d’Uzès appellation

Nestled between the Rhône Valley and the Costières de Nîmes, the Duché d'Uzès appellation is a true winemaking treasure of the South of France. Renowned for its expressive reds, elegant whites, and refreshing rosés, this wine region offers a diverse array of flavors to discover. 

Through this guide, let's dive into the heart of the history, terroir, and iconic estates of the Duché d'Uzès, while exploring the best wine tourism experiences to enjoy on-site.

Discover Boutique Hôtel Entraigues in Uzès

Book your stay at the best rate at the Boutique Hôtel Entraigues:

Check-in date Check-out date Book Best rate guaranteed

Overview of the Duché d’Uzès appellation

The history of the wines of the Duché d'Uzès

The Duché d’Uzès vineyard has deep historical roots, dating back over 2,000 years to the Greek and Phoenician eras. Thanks to its strategic location, this region has always been a crossroads for wine trade. Over the centuries, winemakers have perfected their expertise, crafting wines with a strong identity and a distinct terroir-driven character.

Obtaining the AOC Duché d’Uzès

Despite its ancient history, the Duché d’Uzès appellation had to wait until 2013 to obtain the prestigious AOC label (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) or AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée – the European equivalent). The appellation area primarily encompasses the historical territory of the Duché d’Uzès and extends across 77 communes in the Gard department. This recognition has highlighted the quality and singularity of the wines produced in this region, thereby strengthening their reputation on the national and international stage.

A terroir full of richness

The estate's soil is a true asset for the vines. Composed of pebbles, clay, and limestone, it promotes excellent water retention and optimal grape maturity. The Mediterranean climate, with its hot, dry summers and mild winters, offers ideal conditions for cultivating a variety of grape varieties, producing rich and balanced wines.

The different types of wines in the Uzès region

The red wines of Duché d’Uzès

The reds of the AOC Duché d’Uzès are generally crafted from Grenache and Syrah, occasionally blended with Cinsault, Mourvèdre, and Carignan. They are distinguished by their deep color, dark fruit aromas (blackberry, blackcurrant), spicy notes, and harmonious tannic structure.

• Notable example: Domaine de l’Ancien Prieuré – Cuvée Saint-Firmin, a powerful wine with aromas of garrigue and pepper.

The white wines of the Duché d'Uzès

Composed mainly of a blend of Viognier, Grenache blanc, and sometimes Roussanne, Marsanne, as well as Rolle. These white wines offer wonderful freshness with floral and fruity aromas (peach, apricot, white flowers). They pair wonderfully with Mediterranean dishes and aged cheeses.

• Example to taste: Domaine Deleuze-Rochetin – Cuvée Prestige blanc, an elegant and mineral wine.

The rosé wines of Duché d’Uzès

The rosés of Duché d’Uzès are mainly composed of Grenache, Syrah, and sometimes Cinsault. They captivate with their lightness and aromatic profile, blending red fruit notes (raspberry, redcurrant) with citrus. Ideal as an aperitif or to accompany summer barbecues.

• Suggestion: Domaine Chabrier – Rosé d’Uzès, a fresh and delectable wine.

The main estates and wine cellars of the Duché d'Uzès

The AOP Duché d’Uzès – 2023 key figures: 

• 38 private wineries, 6 cooperative cellars, and 5 wine trading houses 
• 1,200,000 bottles per year (53% red, 30% white, and 17% rosé) 
• 91% of wine estates with official certifications (Organic Agriculture, Conversion to Organic, HVE, Terra Vitis) 
• 10% in bulk and 90% bottled (including 80% in regional syndicate bottles) 
• 10% exported 

The vineyard: 

• 338 ha (46% organic farming or in conversion to organic farming) 
• 2,200 ha identified, growing by 1% to 2% annually 
• 52 km from East to West, spread across 77 municipalities in the Gard department

The main estates of the Duché d'Uzès

Several wine estates stand out for the quality of their production and their commitment to sustainable viticulture. Among the wines of the IGP Duché d’Uzès, here is a selection: 

• Domaine Deleuze-Rochetin: a pioneer of organic winemaking in the canton.
• Domaine des Maladières: renowned for its intense, structured reds.
• Domaine Saint-Firmin: prestigious wines in the heart of Uzès.

The cooperative wine cellars of the Duché d'Uzès

• La Cave d’Uzès: bringing together several producers, it offers a wide range of wines typical of the terroir.
• Les Vignerons du Duché: an iconic cooperative, guaranteeing quality wines at affordable prices.

Wine tourism in the Uzès region

Where to stay during your stay?

To fully enjoy your discovery of the wines of Duché d’Uzès, staying at the Boutique Hôtel Entraigues is an excellent choice. Located right in the heart of Uzès, this charming establishment combines elegance and comfort. Its refined rooms, swimming pool, and proximity to the vineyards, tours, and nearby activities make it an ideal starting point for a wine-tasting getaway.

Discover Boutique Hôtel Entraigues in Uzès

Book your stay at the best rate at the Boutique Hôtel Entraigues:

Check-in date Check-out date Book Best rate guaranteed

Wine-related events

Every year, the Uzès region offers unmissable events for wine enthusiasts:

• Duché d’Uzès Wine Fair: a showcase for the winemaking production of the Gard.
• Les vignerons sur le pont: meet the producers, taste the wines, and discover the region's winemaking traditions.

The best estates to visit

• Domaine de l’Ancien Prieuré: guided tours and tastings in a historic setting.
• Domaine Chabrier: a warm welcome and a discovery of authentic wines.
• Maison M. Chapoutier: vineyard tours, tastings at the cellar bar, or in a private room.

The Duché d’Uzès is a prime destination for wine enthusiasts (red, white, rosé) and heritage lovers alike. Between vineyards, wine events, and charming accommodations such as the Boutique Hôtel Entraigues, every visitor will find an unforgettable experience. Come and discover and savor the wine treasures of this exceptional appellation!

FAQ