A secret vineyard in the heart of Paris
When one thinks of French vineyards it is usually the chateaus of Bordeaux, the gentle slopes of Burgundy or the steep, sun baked hills of the Rhone that spring to mind. However if you find yourself in Paris between the 7th and the 10th of October it might be worth seeking out the little known vineyard of Clos Montmartre nestling just below the Sacre-Coeur on the Montmartre hill.
At the beginning of October this pretty little Vineyard becomes the focus of a five day festival known as the Fete Des Vendages. Clos Montmartre is a working vineyard and usually produces around 1,500 bottles of wine from its gamay and pinot noir grapes. Although it is not Lafite, the wine has been called passable by connoisseurs and has become extremely collectable over the years. The labels designed by local artists and all profits from the wine’s sales go to children’s charities.
As well as celebrating the vineyard and its wine the surrounding shops and cafes, local artists and musicians also celebrate the event. The theme this year is Les Trois Baudets and will celebrate the city’s legendary cabaret theatre of the same name. There will be exhibitors showing off their wines from around the world as well as stalls offering visitors a taste of exquisite French cuisine. The celebrations are then concluded with a fabulous fireworks display.