The growing of vines in this region dates back to Imperial Rome. Initially, wines were planted on the flat areas, and then on the pebbly slopes of the Haut Minervois, at the instigation of the monasteries. The crusades had a profound impact on the Minervois region and it was not until the 18th century that it flourished again, aided by the construction of the Canal de Midi. The appellation has been classified as an AOC since 1985. In their youth these wines develop aromas of blackcurrants, violets, cinnamon and vanilla. As they age, notes of leather, candied fruit and prunes appear.