Discover a little-known gem: the Vendée vineyards 

The Vendée Wine Route offers wine enthusiasts a chance to delve into one of France’s lesser-known yet captivating wine regions. Comprised of  five distinct AOC Fiefs Vendéens terroirs – Brem, Mareuil, Vix, Pissotte and Chantonnay – each with its own unique character and heritage. Whether discovering the coastal elegance of Brem, the historic charm of Pissotte, or the inland intrigue of Chantonnay, the Vendée Wine Route offers something for everyone. 

Brem: coastal elegance 

Nestled on the Atlantic coast, the Brem terroir encompasses the communes of Brem-sur-Mer, Brétignolles-sur-Mer, Île-d’Olonne, Olonne-sur-Mer, Vairé and Talmont-Saint-Hilaire. The maritime influence imparts a distinctive freshness to its wines. The white wines, primarily crafted from Grolleau Gris and Chenin Blanc, are noted for their light apple aromas. Red and rosé varieties feature Pinot Noir, Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Négrette and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering light and fruity profiles. 

Beyond wine, Brem-sur-Mer offers a rich cultural experience with its historic Église Saint-Nicolas and vibrant summer festivals. Visitors can also explore the nearby salt marshes and traditional fishing villages, immersing themselves in the maritime heritage of the region. Brem-sur-Mer also provides diverse wine tours by bike, car, or on foot, leading visitors into the heart of the region’s winemaking stories. Local wine growers are eager to share their knowledge and offer tastings, enriching the experience. Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood in local bistros, pairing regional wines with delicacies like Vendéen oysters and mussels. 

Cycling through the Mourat vineyards near Mareuil-sur-Lay © Simon Bourcier/Vendée Expansion 

Mareuil: the heartland  

Situated centrally, the Mareuil terroir includes Bessay, Chaillé-sous-les-Ormeaux, Le Champ-Saint-Père, Château-Guibert, Corpe, La Couture, Mareuil-sur-Lay-Dissais, Rosnay, Saint-Florent-des-Bois and Le Tablier. This area is renowned for its fruity rosés and structured reds, predominantly composed of Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. The white wines, blending Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay, are fuller and more structured compared to those from Brem. 

Mareuil-sur-Lay-Dissais is also known for its lively local markets and cultural events, including traditional Vendéen folk music performances. The Lay River, winding through the region, offers picturesque picnic spots and scenic boat rides, providing a serene complement to wine tasting. For cycling enthusiasts, the Mareuil-sur-Lay area presents two loops that traverse the Fiefs Vendéens vineyards. These circuits offer a unique perspective on the landscape, allowing for leisurely exploration and encounters with local vintners. 

Domaine Mercier in Vix © Simon Bourcier/Vendée Expansion 

Vix: southern serenity 

Located in the southeast, the Vix terroir is centred around the commune of Vix. The vineyards here produce a variety of wines, each reflecting the unique characteristics of the local terroir. A 47km wine tour not only introduces visitors to its distinct AOC wines but also to the region’s cultural heritage. 

Vix boasts a deep historical connection, with its ties to ancient Gallo-Roman winemaking traditions. Visitors can explore the nearby Marais Poitevin, also known as ‘Green Venice’, a stunning network of canals perfect for boat trips and nature walks. The region also features medieval churches and historical sites that provide a glimpse into the area’s past. 

Winemaker Mathieu Coirier at Domaine Coirier in Pissotte © Simon Bourcier/Vendée Expansion 

Pissotte: rooted richness 

Pissotte’s terroir, located in the commune of Pissotte, is celebrated for its fruity rosés and slightly sparkling whites. The inclusion of the Melon de Bourgogne grape adds to their distinctive character. The deep soils, composed of red schist and clay, encourage vines to develop deep root systems, contributing to the wines’ complexity. 

Pissotte is home to charming heritage sites, including the Saint-Hilaire Church, which dates back centuries. Local artisans and craft markets showcase traditional Vendéen craftsmanship, making it an excellent stop for those interested in regional artistry and history. 

Harvest at Domaine Barbinière in Chantonnay © Simon Bourcier/Vendée Expansion 

Chantonnay: inland intrigue 

As the newest addition to the Fiefs Vendéens AOC, Chantonnay’s vineyards are situated in the commune of Chantonnay. The area’s commitment to quality and tradition is evident in its diverse wine offerings. A 41 km wine tour allows visitors to explore the heritage and AOC Fiefs Vendéens wines of Chantonnay amidst bucolic landscapes. 

Chantonnay is also a gateway to historical attractions such as the Abbaye de Trizay, a medieval monastery that offers insight into the region’s monastic traditions. The area hosts annual festivals celebrating local food, music and folklore, making it a culturally rich destination. 

Wherever you choose to explore, and whether you choose to travel on foot, by bike or car, you will find stunning vineyards and passionate winemakers keen to share their expertise with you, making the Vendée Wine Route a place where history, culture and viticulture intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

Lead photo credit : Visite du Vignoble Mourat - Mareuil sur Lay