Maroc

Winegrowing in Morocco dates back to ancient times, but experienced a period of relative stagnation under Muslim rule. It was with French colonization that viticulture began to flourish once again, particularly with the introduction of four grape varieties to North Africa: Grenache, Carignan, Cinsault, and Alicante Bouschet. This decision was driven by the devastation caused by phylloxera in French vineyards. After regaining its independence, the Kingdom of Morocco did not abandon wine production. Today, wine production is concentrated primarily in the Meknes region.

The first geographical demarcations of Morocco’s wine-growing regions date back to 1934. Regulations at that time allowed wines to be classified as table wine, Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), or Appellation d’Origine Garantie (AOG)—such as Gerrouane in the Meknes region, Zenata near Casablanca, Zemmour, and Zerboune. Also worth mentioning is the AOG Doukkala, southwest of Casablanca, where the famous Boulaouane gray wine is produced. In 2008, the first “Château” designation was granted to Château Roslane, within the “Les Coteaux de l’Atlas” AOC.

The quality of Moroccan wines continues to improve thanks to evolving regulations, efforts in viticultural research, and initiatives by local producers. Château Béniamar has thus won awards in international competitions. Domaine des Ouled Thaleb is another Moroccan wine worth discovering.