Did the grapes of Noisy-le-Grand ever grace the table of a king? We’re standing at Mail du Clos Saint-Vincent, a place echoing with the memory of vineyards. It’s a quiet street now, but imagine the hustle and bustle of centuries past. Mail du Clos Saint-Vincent, once part of a thriving wine region.
The story of Mail du Clos Saint-Vincent intertwines with the history of winemaking in Noisy-le-Grand. As early as the 6th century, Gregory of Tours documented frosts that damaged the vineyards here. Yet, the vines persevered. By 1060, monks cultivated grapes, producing a white wine recognized as one of the best. The wine trade between Noisy and Paris flourished from the 13th to the 16th centuries, utilizing the Marne River for transport. Imagine barges laden with barrels, destined for Parisian tables.
Mail du Clos Saint-Vincent whispers this history. Although only remnants remain, the tradition was revived in 1999 with new plantings. The Confrerie du Clos Saint Vincent, established in 2003, continues the legacy. They cultivate Chardonnay, Seyval, and Sauvignon grapes in the Jardin des Artistes, a testament to the enduring spirit of the vineyard. Their white wine, “le Clos Saint Vincent,” a blend of these three grapes, has even won awards. A gold medal for the 2018 vintage and several silver and bronze medals speak to the quality achieved.
Today, the area around Mail du Clos Saint-Vincent is no longer dominated by vineyards. However, the name itself serves as a reminder of this rich history. It’s a quiet tribute to the monks, traders, and vintners who once made Noisy-le-Grand a renowned wine region. So, as you stroll along Mail du Clos Saint-Vincent, remember the clinking of glasses and the aroma of fine wine that once permeated this very spot. The spirit of the vineyard lives on.