We’re on the road again. This time, diving into Pays d’Oc IGP – we’re talking scenic southern France, and a little-known but intriguing origin story involving California, Algeria, violence, desperation, stubborn visionaries…and victory rescued from the jaws of defeat. Oh, and ‘Liberté!’
Helping us tell the story are Jacques Gravegeal (an exclusive interview, rare for an English language show), Olivier Simonou and Gerard Bertrand. Fascinating people, all with a unique story to tell.
From a standing start in 1987, Pays d’Oc IGP now sells around 21 bottles every second across 170+ countries. It’s a stunning (and rare) vinous success story, and one that’s transformed the fortunes not just of an entire region, but also a national emblem in the shape of French wine.
In this programme, we get to grips with how it all came about, the challenges involved in making it happen, and the exciting recent developments for a category where innovation, ‘is in the DNA’. Thanks to Pays d’Oc IGP for sponsoring and giving us behind-the-scenes access. Look out for the second and concluding part of the mini-series, coming soon!