Paris’ Secret Vineyard

Many of us have heard of the famous wine regions of France- Burgundy, Champagne, Bordeaux, and the Rhône Valley. But did you know that the city of Paris also has a vineyard? Clos Montmartre, located in Montmartre (18 Arrondissement) is the one and only remaining vineyard in the capital, producing red and white wines, although a large concentration of grapes are Gamay and Pinot Noirs.

Years ago, one would find many vineyards at this hilltop in Paris dating back to Roman civilization. With the help of a Benedictine Abbey, production flourished from the 12th through the 20th century. But with the Revolution, and later the vine disease phylloxera, combined with urban development, nearly all farms were destroyed, never to be opened again. Clos Montmartre was spared though and thanks to a group of individuals, the vineyard was brought back to life in 1933. The vineyard even participates in La Fête de Vendanges, an annual festival celebrating the grape harvest. While Clos Montmartre is not included in the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, the French governing board overseeing wine quality control, many consider the wine of Montmartre to be “decent enough” to drink. Best time to visit is during the Fête de Vendange, although tours for small groups may be requested in advance at other times during the year.

Clos Montmartre
14-18 rue des Saules
75018 Paris