Paris has long been a prominent center for wine production, trade, and appreciation. Yet, when we think of vineyards, the capital of France doesn’t often spring to mind. Despite this, Paris holds a rich winemaking heritage and has played a pivotal role in shaping the global wine industry. Here we explore the hidden vineyards in Paris.
The history of wine in Paris can be traced back to Roman times when vineyards were planted in the surrounding Île-de-France region. As the city grew, so did its vineyards and reputation for producing quality wines. By the Middle Ages, Paris was already a thriving wine hub, boasting an abundance of vineyards within and around its boundaries. The Church played a significant role in the development of winemaking in Paris. Monastic orders cultivated vineyards, refined winemaking techniques, and established a market for their products. Notably, the Clos de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, owned by the Church, was one of the most renowned vineyards in the Paris region.
In the heart of the 6th arrondissement, the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district stands as a testament to Paris’s forgotten vineyards. This elegant shopping area was once the site of an extensive vineyard associated with the church, which dates back to the 6th century. Strolling around the church grounds, you can find a few grapevines, remnants of the past.
As Paris blossomed into a bustling metropolis, it emerged as a significant hub for wine trade and distribution, drawing wine merchants from all over France and Europe to cater to the expanding urban populace. The construction of the Canal de l’Ourcq, railroads, and other infrastructures further boosted the city’s wine industry by easing the transport of wines from other regions. However, this urban expansion and the ease of transportation led to a decline in Parisian vineyards over centuries.
Read more about French wine regions near Paris
Back in the early 1930s, artist Francisque Poulbot had a “grape idea” to add a vineyard to a local park. This seed of creativity blossomed into the now-famous Clos Montmartre, Paris’s largest and most renowned vineyard. With an annual production of around 1,500 bottles, the Clos Montmartre’s harvest is the star of the show at the yearly Fete des Vendanges de Montmartre. Growers from all regions also come to sell their wines and participate in the party.
Today, while Paris boasts over six vineyards with Montmartre being the most famous, my personal favorite is the view from la Butte Bergeyre. It’s less touristy, offering a quaint escape into a hidden neighborhood just above the viewpoint. A stroll here reveals an adorable settlement filled with art-deco houses and its own secret vineyard in the 19e arrondissement of the city.
This urban vineyard renaissance in Paris is a delightful nod to the enduring allure of French wine both to locals and tourists alike. What better way to explore the hidden parts of Paris than through its vineyards?
Booking a wine tour or exploring with a guide is also a great way to immerse yourself in Paris and French wine.
Vineyards in Paris
Below is a curated list of these vineyards each ready to be explored.
Clos Montmartre
Address: 14-18 Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris
Clos Montmartre stands as Paris’s largest and most esteemed vineyard, embodying the city’s rich winemaking heritage. While the wines crafted here may not win every palate, the modest annual yield of about 1,500 bottles holds a quaint charm. The Grape Harvest Festival transforms this vineyard into a festive ground, where the season’s harvest is auctioned off in a cherished community celebration.
Clos de Belleville
Address: Parc de Belleville, Rue des Couronnes, 75020 Paris
Nestled in the serene Parc de Belleville and merely a stone’s throw from the Vigne de la Butte Bergeyre, the Clos de Belleville is a hidden treasure. Despite being one of the smallest Paris vineyards, its quaint charm is undeniable. Since 1992, this little vineyard has been crafting wine, offering a peaceful escape with a picturesque backdrop of the city’s skyline.
Clos des Morillons
Address: Parc Georges-Brassens, 15th Arrondissement
Tucked in the heart of Parc Georges-Brassens, Clos des Morillons is an oasis amidst the bustling 15th arrondissement. The park, a former slaughterhouse, is now a beautiful green escape with a unique access point onto the Petite Ceinture, Paris’s secret abandoned railway. It’s a blend of history, nature, and of course, fine wine.
Clos de Bercy
Address: Clos de Bercy, 41 rue Paul Belmondo, 75012 Paris
Located in the South-East of Paris, Clos de Bercy is a remarkable blend of the past and the present. The park houses a vineyard alongside old wine houses, some of which have been transformed into a quaint shopping village known as Bercy Village. Established in 1996, this relatively young vineyard already produces a staggering 250 liters of wine annually.
Butte Bergeyre
Nestled in the 19e arrondissement, Butte Bergeyre is a charming settlement boasting art-deco houses and its own secret vineyard, vigne de la butte bergeyre. This less touristy spot offers a peaceful stroll through hidden neighborhoods, with just one winding road and two twisting pedestrian walkways leading you to this urban vineyard, making it a personal and intimate experience. One of my favorite viewpoints in Paris.
Clos des Arènes
Address: 9 Rue Monge, 75005 Paris
A leisurely stroll between the Jardin des Plantes and the world-famous Sorbonne University leads you to a sun-dappled gravel path, marking the entrance to one of the city’s historic gems. The Arènes de Lutèce, dating back to a time when Paris was Lutetia, once seated 15,000 spectators. Today, it’s a popular Parisian park housing one of the city’s remaining vineyards, where history and modern-day leisure blend seamlessly.
Each of these vineyards is more than just a source of fine wine; they’re gateways to the enduring allure of Paris’s winemaking tradition, each offering a unique experience that goes beyond the wine glass, into the heart of Paris’s rich and varied heritage.
WANT TO READ MORE ABOUT PARIS ?
Looking for resources and inspiration? Check out the Paris Wine Girl Blog archives for more hidden treasures in Paris, restaurants, and exploring French wine regions.
Top 5 Hidden Museums in Paris for Offbeat Art and Culture Lovers
Bourgogne Uncovered: Exploring Hidden Gems and Local Treasures in France’s Wine Country
Escape to French Wine Country: 4 Best Wine Destinations from Paris
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