Montagne Saint-Émilion

Montagne-Saint-Émilion is a division of the Saint-Émilion wine appellation and is part of the Libournais region in Bordeaux, southwest France. It is the largest and the most important of the four satellites of the Saint-Émilion appellation, with 220 dedicated winegrowers. It is famous for its full-bodied, robust, well-balanced red wines with blackberry and cherry notes and good ageing potential. The appellation’s name comes from the word mountain, which is “montange” in French and indicates its hilly and various terroir, reflected in the distinctive taste of its wines. Along with its picturesque landscapes and the rich wine palate the appellation offers, it is a true paradise for oenophiles, with so much to offer. 

Find out more about wine tasting and tours in Montagne-Saint-Émilion!

Where is the Montagne-Saint-Émilion appellation located?

The appellation is located in the extension of the vineyards of Saint-Émilion to the north, on the right bank of the Dordogne river. It belongs to the Libournais district in the great wine region of Bordeaux, France. The village of Saint-Émilion is located in the heart of this wine area.

The neighbouring sub-regions of Montagne-Saint-Émilion are other satellites in Saint-Émilion wine appellation such as Lussac-Saint-Émilion, Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion, Puisseguin Saint-Émilion, also Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux, Castillon – Côtes de Bordeaux, and Lalande-de-Pomerol.

Where to Stay in Saint-Émilion?

A charming boutique hotel with a distinctive ambiance and personality is soulfully rooted in the wine world.

In the heart of the ancient town, the Auberge de la Commanderie provides a panoramic view of Saint-Emilion’s monuments and vineyards.

Enjoy a stay in Saint-Émilion region surrounded by its most famous wine-producing châteaux. A perfect stay for gourmet wine lovers.

A restored 18th-century manor, situated amidst Saint-Émilion vineyards, elegantly refurbished preserving the property's historical heritage.

Discover more exclusive accommodation options in the heart of Saint-Émilion.

The history of Montagne-Saint-Émilion wine appellation 

Bordeaux has a rich history, and Montagne-Saint-Émilion is no exception to the rule. In fact, the arrival of the Romans made it possible to establish vines there at first. After the fall of the Roman Empire marked the arrival of Christian bishops. The appellation then had a very active religious life and experienced incredible vinicultural development. Three churches were built, the limestone quarries were exploited, viticulture was extended and became more professional. 

A long-term effort culminated in obtaining appellation status, granted by INAO and becoming authorized AOC Montagne-Saint-Émilion on November 14, 1936. This logical recognition complements centuries of commitment and officially places the appellation at the forefront rank of Bordeaux wine production.

Montagne-Saint-Émilion wine appellation terroir

The soil types vary in different areas of Montagne-Saint-Émilion, as some places are pretty hilly. The total area of its vineyards makes around 1,500 hectares. In the centre of the appellation area, a limestone plateau with asteria on which limestone and clay-limestone soils have developed. Around the plateau, northeast and southeast, at the foot of the hill, the molasses of Fronsadais outcrops, soils are sandy-loamy, sand-clay. To the west, on the edge of the Lalande-de-Pomerol appellation, on the quaternary alluvial deposits of the Isle terraces, sandy–clayey and sandy–gravelly soils have developed. The climate of this wine region is oceanic with temperate continental influence and no severe extremities, considering that Merlot is quite susceptible to even minor frosts. The combination of excellent terroir characteristics, including self-draining slopes, favourable weather and topography, stipulates the exquisite taste of the wine produced in this appellation. 

Montagne-Saint-Émilion wine characteristics

The Montagne-Saint-Émilion wine appellation produces exclusively red wines. Five grape varieties flourish here: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Everyone has their favourite land; Merlot is prevalent in production, though. The selection of varieties according to the plots is a skilled work carried out by local winegrowers, often over generations, to reveal the best of the appellation. Montagne-Saint-Émilion wines represent the elegance and pride of the region, reflected in their high quality and sophisticated taste. They are characterized by a fair balance between powerful tannins and pleasant freshness. They tend to have rich red colour and intense flavours of red fruits, prunes, liquorice, also undergrowth, and other spices, which they develop over time. Furthermore, they are also blessed with good ageing potential, 5-10 years, along which they might shift the flavours towards more earthy notes. The minimum alcohol content in all Montagne-Saint-Émilion wines must be 11%, and the best serving temperature is 15 to 17° C.

Food to pair with Montagne-Saint-Émilion wine

Lamprey à la Bordelaise

Lamprey à la Bordelaise is a traditional dish from Bordeaux, France. It includes a lamprey with cured ham, red wine, fresh herbs, and vegetables such as leeks, onions, and garlic. It is usually served with garlic bread, croutons, and a glass of local red wine.

Beef fillet with a Roquefort sauce

The beef fillet with a Roquefort sauce comprises a beef fillet, a creamy blue cheese sauce, and mushrooms. It originates from France and consists of beef fillet, butter, cream, Roquefort cheese and mushrooms. To prepare the dish: cut the mushrooms into small pieces before cooking them in butter for about 5 minutes. Add cream to the mixture and cook until it thickens slightly. Then add some grated Roquefort cheese and continue to cook until it melts into the mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste, then pour over the beef fillet slices before serving. This dish goes exceptionally well with a glass of red wine.

Rib eye steak

The rib eye steak is a cut of beef from the rib section. It is one of the most popular and well-known cuts of steak. The cut can be cooked in many ways, but the best cooking methods are pan-frying, grilling and oven roasting. It is usually cooked in butter and flavoured with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. A rib eye steak is often served as a main dish with other side ingredients such as salad or potatoes, and pairing it with a glass of fine red wine is simply classic.

Places to visit around Montagne Saint-Émilion

Notre Dame de Prasac

Notre Dame de Prasac is the smallest church in Montagne, France. It is a Roman-style church, in view of the dedication present on the interior face of the south pillar of the triumphal arch. There are not many historical references, but the church's construction dates back to the 12th-14th century; however, it was damaged and rebuilt a few times.  The most recent restoration came about in 1992. The church was classified as a historical monument by order of February 13, 2022. Therefore, it is an absolute cultural must-see of the region. 

Saint Martin’s Church

Saint Martin’s Church is over 700 years old. It was first built in the 12th century, and many additions and restorations have been added since then. The bell tower has four square towers at the intersection of the transepts and nave. On the west side is a door with seven arches and capitals that appear like fantastic heads. In summary, visitors praise the harmonious balance of the tower, transepts, and apses. Inside this beautiful church is a dome, closer to the Gothic style from the 12th century, which is quite unique to Libourne’s designs then and indicates the beginning of shifting the architecture to a new, different style.

Château of Towers

The Château of Towers was built in the 14th century, with two polygonal keeps and circular towers. The castle also houses a chapel, which is outside of it. It is an impressive castle due to its architecture. The Château of Towers is also open to the public with guided tours.

Frequently Asked Questions about Montagne Saint-Émilion