St. Emilion is a medieval era town in terms of architecture, but has been continually inhabited since about 35,000 BCE. The Romans planted vineyards in what was to become Saint-Émilion as early as the 2nd century. In the 4th century, the Latin poet Ausonius lauded the fruit of the bountiful vine. The Grand Cru appellation was added in 1954, and the whole town and wine growing region was given a UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1999.
It is a beautiful town built into a hill with spectacular views, and with 800 vinyards in the surrounding area (67% of land is planted in grape vines). The town is perfect for aging wine at the perfect temperature--there are loads of underground tunnels under the town. It is easy to taste a lot of great to magnificent wine, but wow, we were by no means the first people to discover this jewel, and the tourists outnumber the inhabitants on the streets 20:1. Plan accordingly!
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