La Belle Pierre, the cooperative south

Located in the south of France, in the Gard department within the Languedoc-Roussillon region, stands the Cave Coopérative La Belle Pierre. Established in 1914, local winemakers came together to support their craft and local products. They named it La Belle Pierre in honor of the medieval name of the town: “Belcaire,” now known as Beaucaire. More than a century later, the cooperative remains active and united, continuing its legacy.

How is the cooperative organized?

A harmonious organization

The cooperative's cellar master orchestrates the operations, staying attentive to the vineyards and winemakers throughout the year. He sets specifications for each winemaker and chooses the vinification tools while being mindful of the unique conditions of each vintage. Each winemaker contributes their parcel’s "song" to the vineyard’s symphony. Passionate about their craft, many of whom practice it from generation to generation, they share their knowledge and skills in a collective intelligence effort.

While the entire vineyard is certified Haute Valeur Environnementale, many winemakers practice organic farming. Every year, during the harvest, each winemaker brings their contribution to the cooperative. The cellar master then enhances the work of this large team of winemakers in the months following the harvest and until bottling.

What wines does the estate produce?

A rich selection of southern wines

The extensive vineyard covers a total of four appellations: IGP Vin de Pays du Gard, IGP Pays d’Oc, IGP du Pont du Gard, and the prestigious AOC Costières de Nîmes.

In red, white, and rosé wines, the cooperative showcases the diverse facets of the terroir. For red wines, sun-loving grape varieties are used: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, and Caladoc. These produce robust, flavorful reds with intense aromas.

Frequently asked questions about La Belle Pierre

Where is the La Belle Pierre cooperative located?

La Belle Pierre sits in the Gard, in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, right at the edge of Provence. Its vineyard spreads over more than 500 hectares between these two southern areas.

When was the La Belle Pierre cooperative created?

It was founded in 1914, when local growers joined forces to defend their craft and their terroir. Its name honours Belcaire, the medieval name of Beaucaire. Today it brings together eighty-five winegrowers.

Which appellations does La Belle Pierre produce?

Four in all: the AOC Costières de Nîmes, the best known of the area, plus IGP Pays d'Oc, IGP du Pont du Gard and IGP du Gard. Reds, whites and rosés are all made here.

Which grape varieties go into La Belle Pierre wines?

The reds rely on sun-loving varieties such as Syrah, Grenache, Merlot and Carignan. The whites blend Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Vermentino, Colombard and Viognier for fresh, fruity styles.

Does La Belle Pierre follow an environmental approach?

Yes. The whole vineyard holds the Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE) certification, and a number of its growers go further with organic farming.