Provence is truly a historic province in the south-east of France and is situated between the Rhône, the Mediterranean and the Alps and the area is known for its good food, good wines and, probably lavender! But Provence is also France’s oldest wine producing region.
Here you will literally find everything you want: beautiful beaches, wonderful scenery, exciting food and fantastic wines, of course. There are eight recognized appellations in the region: Bandol, Bellet, Cassis, Côteaux Varois, Côteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, Côtes de Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence and Palette.
It should be noted that Cotes de Provence is the largest of the appellations and accounts for almost 2/3 of the total wine production in the region and that appellation Les Baux-de-Provence actually was the first French wine region to go completely organic and insist that all vineyards should become entirely biodynamic and work according to Rudolf Steiner’s thoughts: no chemicals added, only herbal and mineral fertilising as well as working according to the astronomical calendar for planting and harvesting.
The Mistral wind that blows over this part of France is harsh but also dry will cool off and dry grapes during the rains which protects them from diseases such as mold and fungi.
Provence has a climate with mild winters and hot summers. There is also a variety of different soils, from limestone, slate, limestone and obviously there is also a wide variation of grapes, both traditional French grapes such as Grenache Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon to mention only a few of the brad variety for white wines and then Syrah, Mourvedre, Carignan, Tannat, Cinsault for the red wines. There are also ample of local more uncommon grape varieties such as Pascal, Pignerol Folle Noir, Tibouren, Barbaroux and many more.
Some Wineries to Visit on your Tour in Provence:
The vineyard Château Virant is located in Aro en Provence and the Wirant is the rocky cliff that gave its name to this vineyard. This magnificent cliff offers at the same timer a stunning view overlooking the landscape from the pond called Berre right through to Mount Sainte Victoire.
The soil here consists of clay and limestone and here there are warm temperatures with a lot of sunshine. This provides a dry and beneficial soil for grapes such as Syrah, Grenache and Ugni Blanc. Apart from grapes, there are also varieties of olive trees, including the well-known varieties Aglandau and Salonenque.
- Appellation: Côteaux d’Aix en Provence
- Activity: Visit and wine tasting at Château Virant
- Price: 10€
Fifty years ago, the La Ferme des Lices was a pretty vineyard near the peninsula of Saint-Tropez and in the heart of a real estate project, and the vines were about to disappear. Fortunately, Laurence Berlemont decided to save the vineyard. The grapes thrive in this exceptional location and its terroir, so totally exposed to sunshine and with the typically Mediterranean climate.
Today, the vineyard at La Ferme des Lices spreads over an area of 8 hectares. It produces amazingly delicious wines using a great variety of grapes, including Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault. All their red, white and rose wines are tasty and unique in their texture. There are also about 350 olive trees on the estate. The winemakers work with both traditional and modern techniques to produce these authentic wines.
La Ferme des Lices largely encourages wine tourism and welcomes visitors from all over the world. They organise events and wine-tasting sessions. When you visit the winery for a guided tour you will see the wine cellars and vineyards. Your wine-tasting session will certainly leave you with a mental and physical boost!
- Appellation: Côtes De Provence
- Activities: Wine tasting at La ferme des Lices
- Price: free
The lovely Domain of Clos d’ Alari is in Saint-Anntonin-du-Var, is one of the most beautiful wineries in France. The owner of the vineyard is a mother-daughter duo and they have been in the business for 20 years. Clos d’Alari represents 3 leaves: the oak leaf, the vine leaf and the olive tree leaf, because of this winery in an enchanting environment of olive trees, truffle oaks, and vines.
The family vineyard covers 20 hectares. The wines are red, white and rosé to typically for Cotes de Provence. Grapes include Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Merlot, Rolle, Cinsault, Carignan. The main highlights of the estate of Clos d’Alari include a grocery store, a restaurant and the wine cellars. Together with wines, the winery also sells truffles and olive oil.
Here you can take a hike, relax under the mulberry trees, visit to the historical sites or take a walk along the coastline. For your visit, whether it is private or professional, you may book the guest house.
- Appellation: Côtes De Provence
- Activities: Wine tasting at Domaine du Clos d ‘Alari
- Price: 13€
