Summary
Gaining its name from a time when the local inhabitants spoke the language of Oc, this area is comprised of the departments of Aude, Hérault and Gard. Home to France’s best value wines and most important in terms of volume. Viticulture is the most important industry to the local economy once holding ⅓ of all vines in France. An arduous vine pull scheme aimed at reducing Europe’s 'wine lake' was directed here with much success (Total area under vine is 50% less than in 1968). Low lying alluvial plains is where most vines are located, however hillside sites are being explored. Competition from inexpensive imports from Spain and Portugal have led this area to shift focus towards premium wine production. A large range of grape varieties are grown, with cooperatives responsible for 70% of total production. AOC wines must adhere to principal and permitted grape rules. These wines are mostly blends.