Arras – 10.06.2026: The Terrils, once the distinctive hills made from mining spoil heaps in Pas-de-Calais, have developed over recent years into a symbol of the region’s transformation. Where coal dust once darkened the sky, now vineyards and forests are growing.
In 2014, Olivier Pucek, a native of Haillicourt, dared to experiment by planting Chardonnay vines on the Terril of Haillicourt. Despite the region’s variable climate, the vintner’s boldness proved successful. Today, on this former coal mine, not only forests but also vines flourish, enriching the area with an unexpected Chardonnay.
This development is not an isolated case. More and more farmers in Pas-de-Calais are discovering the benefits of wine production. Benoît Davin, a farmer from Aisne, decided in 2016 to switch from grain cultivation to viticulture. With support from colleagues and a local cooperative, he planted a total of 4,500 vines in 2020 and 2021. In 2023, he proudly bottled 2,000 bottles of his own wine.
This renaissance of viticulture on former coal spoil heaps is not only an economic success but also a cultural statement. The Terrils, once symbols of the region’s industrial character, are now a symbol of change and adaptability among the people of Pas-de-Calais. They connect history and future in a way that honors the memory of the past while looking forward.
The success story of Chardonnay from the Terrils has also attracted international attention. The “Charbonnay,” named after the coal mine, is now sold for about 55 euros per bottle. The entire 2023 harvest was sold out even before bottling.
This development demonstrates how from the remnants of coal mining, a new chapter in the history of Pas-de-Calais is being written. The combination of tradition and innovation creates a unique product that strengthens regional identity and opens new prospects for the future.
The transformation of the Terrils in Pas-de-Calais is an impressive example of how communities can reinvent themselves and create new opportunities from their past. It shows that even the darkest chapters of a region can be bathed in bright colors when courage, creativity, and cooperation come together.
At a time when many regions face the challenges of structural change, Pas-de-Calais offers an inspiring example of how noble wine can emerge from coal dust. It is a story of hope, change, and the unwavering determination of people to shape their own futures.