Although the small town of Saint-Chinian doesn't fully live up to the lovely approach through the vineyards and surrounding hills, its fame as a wine producer and local market make it worth the trip nonetheless.

Saint-Chinian was founded by monks in 825 AD who built a monastery here. They then went on to plant vineyards that saw the start of the prosperous local economy. Today, wine continues to be the main industry in St Chinian. Saint Chinian Red wine is the usual tipple, but there is also a very good local rose, especially the one produced in the nearby village of Roquebrun.

 

Saint Chinian market

 

Every Thursday and Sunday, Saint-Chinian holds one of the best markets in the area. St Chinian market is mainly food, but also find sellers of clothes, fabrics, books, plants, as well as lots of local producers.

The market takes place in the main square of Saint-Chinian. On one of the corners of the square you will see a great wine shop selling all the Saint-Chinian wines. Make sure you call in and leave with a car full of great Saint-Chinian wine, some of the best to be found in Languedoc (for more information see Best Languedoc Wines).

 

  

 

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Where to next . . .?

If you are a bit of a Foodie and you are planning a trip to the South of France in 2024, then you are in for a treat. The Languedoc region in the South of France is the largest producer of organic food & wine in France and features some of the best Oysters and mussels, a fantastic array of cheeses (especially the local Brebis and Chevre), some excellent local dishes such as the Cassoulet from Carcassonne and the spicy Tielle tart from Sète; and beautiful fresh fruits and vegetables. You will also find a good choice of local restaurants including dozens of Michelin star restaurants and excellent family-run eateries

To get the best out of your trip, then the following articles are a good source of local information:

 

The best markets in Languedoc Read our day-to-day guide to the best markets in the Languedoc region of South France, so that you can always find a great local market to visit, no matter what day it is.	The best Farmers' markets in South France There are many excellent Farmers' Markets in the Languedoc region of South France, selling high quality local produce and organic fruit & vegetables. Read our guide to the best French Farmers' Markets.
Best festivals in South France in 2024 Discover the best food & wine festivals to visit in South France during 2024. From festivals celebrating the harvest of local fruit to the production of Goats' cheese, we have everything covered.	10 best Beziers restaurants to eat at in 2024 Discover some of the best restaurants to eat at whilst you are visiting Beziers. The city has 3 of the most celebrated Chefs in the Languedoc and has an excellent range of eateries.