Definition: Madiran

However, it was from the 11th century onwards that the vineyard's reputation began to grow. This period also saw the founding of Madiran Abbey in 1030 by Benedictine monks from Marcillac Abbey. Between the 12th and 14th centuries, Madiran was known as "priest's wine" and became the wine of pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela. The 16th to 18th centuries were its golden age; François I described it as a "lord's wine that ages very well" and Henri IV made it a wine of the court. The term "Madiran wine" appeared for the first time in 1738. The 19th century marked a turning point as the wine became increasingly popular in Paris. However, the vineyards were hit hard by the phylloxera crisis and almost disappeared completely. They were revived in the 20th century and the winegrowers formed a union in 1906.

The appellation decrees were defined the following year. However, it was not until 1948 that the AOC was officially recognised.