Languedoc-Roussillon is the largest and oldest wine region in the world, known for its variety of wines: from refreshing white wines and rosés to strong red wines and natural sweet wines. Originally introduced by the Greeks and Phoenicians, viticulture became an economic success by the Romans. The region comprises the departments of Aude, Gard, Hérault and Pyrénées-Orientales and benefits from the hot, dry Mediterranean climate, which is tempered by altitudes and winds. Around 9 million hectoliters of wine are produced here every year.