Gaillac Ancient Vineyards

One of France's oldest wine regions, Gaillac's vineyards date to Roman times. The Tarn River (Roman: Tarnis) carried wines to Bordeaux for export. Taste indigenous grapes like Braucol and Loin de l'Œil that Romans would recognize.

Insider tips

• Domaine Rotier makes exceptional natural wines using Roman-era grape varieties

• The Abbey of Saint-Michel has cellars dating to Benedictine monks (who continued Roman methods)

• Gaillac Perlé is a slightly sparkling style that evokes ancient wine techniques

• October wine festival celebrates 2,000 years of winemaking