Many people don’t think about wine when they think of Morocco, given that it is a Muslim country where alcohol seems to be out of the equation. But Morocco is indeed a wine country, just like all our destinations! Discover the enchanting world of Moroccan wines, where the symphony of rich history and unique terroir come together to create a vinous masterpiece.
Nestled in the heart of North Africa, Morocco boasts an unparalleled potential for producing exceptional wines, thanks to its majestic mountains and the cooling embrace of the Atlantic Ocean, which harmoniously counterbalance the intense heat. This idyllic climate, coupled with a legacy of wine production dating back to Phoenician times and continuing through the Roman era, has transformed Morocco into a burgeoning viticultural paradise.
Winemaking traditions, once extinguished by Islamic prohibitions in the 7th century, were revived under French colonial influence during the 19th and early 20th centuries, bringing with it a renewed culture of social drinking. Today, the country produces about 40 million bottles of wine annually, but only about 5 percent is exported. There are seven wine regions (see the map below) containing a total of 14 AOGs (guaranteed appellation of origin) and 3 AOCs (controlled appellation of origin), including Côteaux de l’Atlas, Crémant de l’Atlas, and the recent Côtes de Rommani which showcase quality control measures.
Morocco’s vineyards have been reinvigorated by a flourishing wave of foreign investments in recent decades, ushering in a new era of innovation and excellence. Join us on a journey through the vineyards of this captivating land, and uncover the secrets behind the exquisite wines from Morocco.
The Terroir in Morocco, beyond the sands
The terroir in Morocco is a mesmerizing blend of geology, climate, and human craftsmanship, which together carve out the soul of Moroccan wines. The vineyards are primarily rooted in the fertile grounds where the Atlantic’s misty breath meets the rugged slopes of the Atlas Mountains, creating microclimates that are ideal for viticulture. The diverse soil compositions, from the mineral-rich sands of the coastal plains to the clay and limestone mixtures found further inland, contribute distinct characteristics to the wines, each sip telling a story of its origin.
Morocco boasts several wine regions, each with its own unique appellations and significance in the wine industry. Wine production in Morocco is geographically concentrated in seven key regions: the Guerrouane region near the ancient city of Meknes, the Zenata region, Sais, Beni M’Tir, Zaire, Berkanne, and the far-flung region of Essaouira. Meknes, often referred to as the “Bordeaux of Morocco,” stands out as a significant hub, benefiting from a continental climate moderated by the heights of the Atlas Mountains. This region, with its well-draining soils and generous sunlight, produces some of the country’s most celebrated wines. As you venture through these regions, each vineyard unveils a unique facet of Moroccan terroir, making the journey through Morocco’s wine country an intimate exploration of geography and culture.
Revival of the Moroccan Wine Industry from the 20th century
Founded by entrepreneurs to provide bulk services to France’s bulk markets, the wine industry in Morocco rose within a progressive Muslim nation. Initially, foreign investors mostly from French and Spanish wineries began bringing their expertise and vines into the country. This infusion of knowledge and resources was crucial, especially considering the devastation caused by the phylloxera epidemic in the late 19th century, which decimated vineyards across Europe. Morocco’s relatively untouched vineyards provided a vital refuge and opportunity for these European vintners.
Large-scale wine production in Morocco faced numerous challenges, including the impact of French colonialism and economic obstacles. However, the industry saw a revival in the 1990s under the rule of Hassan II, which helped rejuvenate the sector.
The industry has since flourished, covering half of Morocco’s vineyards. Today, Morocco is one of the key members of the OIII (International Organization of Vine and Wine). Despite restrictive policies and cultural challenges, the wine sector continues to be extremely profitable, producing an estimated 40 million bottles per year. This success is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Moroccan wine industry, which has grown from its historical roots to become a significant player on the global stage.
Moroccan Wine Designations
In Morocco, the wine classifications AOG (Appellation d’Origine Garantie) and AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) are used to indicate the quality and geographical origin of wines, similar to the systems in France.
Moroccan wines are classified into several categories, including ‘table wines’ which are significant for their role in the mass production and export of Moroccan wines. These wines are often labeled as ‘table wine AOG’ or ‘AOC’, reflecting their quality and origin.
AOG (Appellation d’Origine Garantie)
- Definition: This designation is a guarantee of origin for wines produced in specific regions of Morocco.
- Focus: It ensures that the wine comes from a designated geographical area and meets certain basic standards of production.
- Regulations: AOG wines must adhere to regulations regarding grape varieties, cultivation practices, and production methods specific to their region.
- Quality Level: While AOG wines are recognized for their regional characteristics and authenticity, the standards are typically less stringent compared to AOC wines.
AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée)
- Definition: This is a higher classification that denotes controlled designation of origin, indicating a stricter set of regulations and higher quality standards.
- Focus: AOC wines must meet rigorous criteria concerning the terroir, grape varieties, vineyard practices, and winemaking techniques.
- Regulations: The AOC status imposes stricter controls on all aspects of production, from the vineyard to the bottle. This includes limits on yield, specific vineyard management practices, and precise winemaking methods.
- Quality Level: AOC wines are considered to be of superior quality and are subject to more stringent testing and certification processes. This classification aims to preserve the traditional and highest-quality expressions of the region’s wine.
What is grey wine in Morocco?
Grey wine in Morocco, known as “vin gris,” is a unique type of wine that features a pale, slightly pinkish-grey color. This hue is achieved through a winemaking process that involves minimal skin contact with red grape varieties, typically lasting only a few hours. The grapes most commonly used for producing grey wine in Morocco include Cinsault, Grenache, and Carignan.
To make grey wine, the grapes are gently pressed, and the juice is allowed brief contact with the skins before fermentation begins. This limited interaction imparts the wine with its characteristic color and subtle flavors.
Grey wine is best enjoyed chilled and pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as seafood, salads, and light appetizers. Its delicate, refreshing taste makes it a perfect choice for warm weather and casual gatherings.
Wine styles and grape varieties in Morocco
The consumption of red wines is very large at over 75 %. Rosé wine and “vin gris“ accounts for nearly 20 per cent and white wine for less than 3 per cent. In Morocco, the vast majority of the 50,000 hectares (123,552 acres) of vineyards are planted with red grape varieties. Initial plantings in the late 1990s primarily included Carignan, Alicante Bouschet, Cinsaut, and Grenache, along with local indigenous varieties such as Abbou, Doukkali, and Maticha. Chenin Blanc is also one example of the grape varieties used in Moroccan winemaking.
Syrah, a grape varietal known for its bold flavors and deep color, has found an illustrious home in the diverse terroirs of Morocco. The regions of Meknes, Benslimane, and Berkane are particularly celebrated for their Syrah vineyards, where the unique combination of soil and climate creates an optimal environment for this varietal to thrive. Traditional white grape varieties such as Clairette blanche and Muscat are planted, with smaller experimentation with Chardonnay, Chenin blanc, and Sauvignon blanc to produce white wines with sufficient freshness.
Syrah in Morocco is distinguished by its rich, dark fruit flavors, mingling with spicy notes of black pepper, licorice, and hints of earthiness. Syrocco, crafted by Rhône’s renowned winemaker Alain Graillot, offers a complex and elegant profile. This Moroccan wine reflects Graillot’s expertise and the region’s unique terroir.
Another remarkable expression of Syrah in Morocco is the Thalvin – Domaine des Ouled Thaleb Tandem. This exquisite wine is born from a collaboration between Thalvin, a prominent Moroccan winery, and Alain Graillot, a celebrated winemaker from the Rhône Valley. The resulting Tandem Syrah is a testament to the extraordinary potential of Moroccan terroir, showcasing an intricate bouquet of dark berries, violet, and subtle hints of Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, it unfolds layers of rich fruit, velvety tannins, and a touch of spice, offering an intimate glimpse into the soul of Moroccan viticulture. This wine is a symphony of passion and expertise, inviting connoisseurs to explore the deep, storied legacy of Moroccan winemaking.
Through the passionate dedication of winemakers and continuous experimentation with cultivation techniques, Moroccan wines have emerged as significant players in the viticultural scene, further enriching the tapestry of global wines. This enduring commitment to excellence ensures that Moroccan varietals remain a cornerstone of the country’s growing reputation as a producer of world-class wines.
What are the most famous wineries in Morocco?
There are many, but these are in every wine list across the country:
- Domaine Ouled Thaleb: Domaine Ouled Thaleb, located near Casablanca, is one of Morocco’s oldest and most famous wineries, established in 1923. Its most renowned wine is the “Ouled Thaleb Signature,” a red blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, celebrated for its rich flavors and balanced structure.
- Les Celliers de Meknès: Les Celliers de Meknès, situated in the fertile Meknès region, is known for producing some of the country’s finest wines. Their Château Roslane is a standout wine, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, appreciated for its complexity and elegance.
- Domaine des Ouled El Aida: Domaine des Ouled El Aida, nestled in the Atlas Mountains, is praised for its quality and innovation in winemaking. The Domaine des Ouled El Aida Blanc is particularly famous, made from indigenous varieties and known for its fresh, aromatic profile with citrus and floral notes.
- Domaine de la Zouina: Domaine de la Zouina, located in the hills of the Meknès region, stands as a beacon of Morocco’s winemaking renaissance. This enchanting vineyard, which means “The Beautiful,” was revived by two passionate French winemakers, the Gribelin brothers, who brought their seasoned expertise from the Pessac-Léognan in Bordeaux. Embracing both tradition and innovation, the estate covers 115 hectares (clay-limestone soils) and 63 hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Chardonnay have been planted. Their ambition is to make it a classified growth. Both ranges Epicurea -their top brand- and Volubilia are delightful and enjoyable. The estate’s picturesque setting, with views overlooking the rolling hills and ancient olive groves, adds an intimate charm that is palpable in each bottle they produce. Their extra virgin olive oil is one at the top three in Morocco.
- Domaine du Val d’Argan: Domaine du Val d’Argan, founded by Charles Melia, a pioneering spirit hailing from the Rhône Valley, stands as a testament to the intimate bond between terroir and the art of winemaking. Situated near the enchanting town of Essaouira, on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, this lush vineyard thrives in an environment where the ocean’s cooling breezes and the rich, sandy soils nurture the vines. The estate is renowned for its biodynamic farming practices, creating wines imbued with a sense of place and purity. Signature offerings such as the Val d’Argan Blanc, a refreshing blend of Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier, showcase a palette of floral and fruit notes, while the Val d’Argan Mogador Red harmonizes Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre into a symphony of bold, intricate flavors. A visit to Domaine du Val d’Argan is a deeply personal journey into the essence of Moroccan viticulture, revealing the intimate relationship between the land and the passionate hands that cultivate it.
- La Ferme Rouge:La Ferme Rouge, a Moroccan winery, blends tradition with innovation in the Zaer region. Founded by oenologist Jacques Poulain, the estate thrives on clay-limestone soils and Mediterranean sun. Their flagship red, Terres Rouges, is a harmonious mix of Tempranillo, Syrah, and Merlot, offering rich berry and spice notes. Blanc de la Ferme, a vibrant Sauvignon Blanc and Vermentino blend, refreshes the palate. Committed to sustainability and organic farming, La Ferme Rouge showcases the soul of Moroccan winemaking.
Some of Our Favorite Moroccan Wines
In the heart of Morocco’s winemaking landscape, a selection of truly remarkable wines has emerged, each embodying the spirit and essence of this captivating land. Here are eight exceptional Moroccan wines that have won our hearts:
- Domaine du Val d’Argan Blanc – This vibrant white wine, crafted from a blend of Roussanne, Marsanne, and Viognier grapes, offers a delightful bouquet of floral and citrus notes, with a crisp and refreshing finish.
- Les Trois Domaines Rouge – A splendid blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Cinsault, this red wine exudes rich flavors of black fruits, spices, and subtle earthy undertones, reflecting the complexity of Moroccan terroir.
- Volubilia Gris – Produced by Domaine de la Zouina, this elegant grey wine made from Caladoc and Marselan grapes is known for its delicate, pale pink color and a refreshing palate of red berries and white peach.
- Domaine de Baccari Syrah – This standout red wine boasts intense aromas of dark cherry and plum, with hints of pepper and chocolate, showcasing the potential of Syrah in Moroccan vineyards.
- Château Roslane Premier Cru – As one of Morocco’s premier red blends, this wine offers a refined combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah, with layered flavors of blackberry, toasted oak, and spice.
- Bacco Noir Reserve – This luxurious blend of Malbec and Tempranillo comes from the Thalvin estate, featuring robust flavors of ripe blackberries, cassis, and a hint of vanilla, all held together by soft, velvety tannins.
- Coteaux de l’Atlas Guerrouane – Known for its balanced acidity and rich texture, this red blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Carignan reveals a tapestry of flavors including dried figs, plums, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs.
- Domaine de Sahari Rosé – This charming rosé, crafted from Grenache and Syrah grapes, delights with its vibrant, salmon hue and a fresh, fruity profile that includes notes of strawberry, raspberry, and a hint of rose petals.
Each of these wines captures the unique heritage and innovative spirit of Moroccan viticulture, offering a taste of the country’s rich winemaking tradition in every sip.
Can we buy Moroccan wine in the US?
Yes, it is possible to buy Moroccan wine in the US, though availability can vary by region and retailer. Many wine enthusiasts are delighted to find that some specialized wine shops and online retailers offer a curated selection of Moroccan wines. Renowned labels such as Domaine Ouled Thaleb, Les Celliers de Meknès, and Domaine du Val d’Argan have made their way across the Atlantic, allowing American connoisseurs to experience the distinctive flavors and rich heritage of Moroccan viticulture.
Wine importers often focus on bringing unique and diverse international wines to the US market, and Moroccan wineries are increasingly finding a place in this space. For those eager to explore these wines, checking with local wine merchants or browsing reputable online wine stores can provide opportunities to savor the exotic and captivating notes of Moroccan wine right at home.
Wine Importers and Distributors Selling Moroccan Wine in the US
For wine aficionados eager to explore the enchanting world of Moroccan wines, several esteemed importers and distributors make these treasures accessible in the United States, among them:
- Vos Selections in New York.
- Ancona’s in Connecticut.
- Nomadic Distribution in Los Angeles, Ca.
Keep exploring or ask your wine sources to bring some Moroccan wine to you.
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Moroccan wines represent a captivating confluence of tradition, innovation, and unparalleled terroir. In our gastronomic tours, we focus on Moroccan wines, which pair perfectly with the local food and its strong flavors and spices. With their unique blends and rich flavors, they offer a vibrant glimpse into Morocco’s storied winemaking heritage. Whether you are savoring the bold notes of a Syrah blend or the delicate hues of a Gris, each bottle opens a doorway to a world where history and modernity dance in perfect harmony. As Moroccan wines continue to make their mark on the global stage, they invite us all to experience a soulful journey through the vineyards of this enchanting land.
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