Division 5.1 Specificity of the geographical area

The geographical area is characterised by the presence of the Vosges Mountains. In this heavily wooded mountain range, Vosges fir trees are by far the most abundant species. They are well suited to the soil, which is made up of an acidic substratum, granite and sandstone, and to the semi-continental climate, characterised by its humidity and coolness, which are favourable to the growth of the trees. The North-South orientation of the Vosges Mountains accentuates the characteristics of this climate, blocking clouds coming in from the west. This explains the abundant rainfall pattern (Foehn effect). Honey has long been produced in Lorraine. Various documents attest to awards won in competitions, most notably at a 1902 agricultural show.

Key operators from the Vosges beekeeping community have done everything to promote and highlight the value of this specific production sector.

This led to the recognition of the ‘Miel des Vosges-Montagne’ designation of origin in a ruling by the Nancy Regional Court of 25 April 1952, which later became the ‘Miel de Sapin des Vosges’ registered designation of origin on 30 July 1996.