This is the second stage of the sound itinerary on vines and biodiversity within the AOP Terrasses du Larzac. Here, in the Hérault, at the source of the river Buèges, a natural cathedral inspires an almost religious contemplation. The AOP Terrasses du Larzac extends northwards towards the Cévennes and the Massif de la Séranne, encompassing the pristine environment of the Vallée de la Buèges along the way. Here too, human hands have built the many dry stone wall terraces that are now colonised by vegetation. The wildlife is abundant, be it birds, damselflies or toads... close your eyes and immerse yourself in the heart of this unspoilt nature.

The local biodiversity is also a part of the cultural heritage. As Olivier Bellet explains, the olive, almond, fig or other fruit trees are at the origin of the microclimates experienced here in the appellation. A part of this heritage is a cultural, almost psychological, approach of 'letting go', allowing nature to reclaim its rightful place in cultivating the vine. This approach is witnessed through the management practices that are applied across the appellation. Not too far away, Anne-Laure Sicard experiments with different practices to accompany the vines in their development, sowing different plants between the rows, or even letting geese roam!

Credits, in order of appearance

Thomas Michel, Environmental Education Officer, association Demain la Terre!

Olivier Bellet, winegrower at Clos Riviéral, in Loiras du Bosc

Anne-Laure Sicard, winegrower at Mas Lasta in St Jean de la Blaquière

This podcast was directed by Alexandre Héraud, with support from his team at Écran Sonore, in particular Vincent Decque, editor.

The podcast was produced for the series Wine Routes, and can be found on our web application "Itinérances en Terrasses du Larzac" : https://visit.terrasses-du-larzac.com/ This web app was developed in partnership with Vinoways, a Montpellier-based start-up. It was financed with the support of Occitanie Region, and European LEADER programme funds administered by Pays Cœur d'Hérault (destination Vineyards and Discoveries "Languedoc Heart of Hérault").

Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.