Côtes de Provence Wine Region

Cotes de Provence wine region is the largest wine-growing district in Provence wine region. The wine region predominantly produces rose wines which account for more than 75% of total rose wine production in the entire Provence region. The region is diverse with a variety of climates, altitudes, and soils due to its size. The appellation is further divided into 4 geographical sub-regions - Sainte Victoire, La Londe, Frejus, and Pierrefeu. Cotes de Provence boasts more than 352 independent wineries and 38 large cooperatives producing their famous rose wines. 

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Cotes de Provence!

Where is the Cotes de Provence wine region?

Cotes de Provence is a wine region in southern France that is part of the Provence wine region. To the south, the territory is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea. Around 20000 hectares of vineyards are spread throughout three departments: Bouches-du-Rhone, Var, and one village in Alpes-Maritimes. The wine region now has 84 wine-growing communes, up from 42 previously. Cotes de Provence is also known as the world's Dry Rose wine center. The wine area is located 375 kilometers south of Lyon and 525 kilometers south of Geneva.

Where to stay in Provence

If you seek the vibrant pulse of the city, consider staying in urban hubs such as Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, offering a blend of cultural heritage and contemporary amenities. Alternatively, for an idyllic countryside retreat, explore quaint villages providing tranquil settings amid rolling vineyards and lavender fields.

Located a stone's throw from museums of the Mazarin district, the Maison du Collector opens an intimate and comfortable break in the heart of Aix en Provence.

A 4-star hotel is located in the small and charming Provencal village of Joucas near Gordes, where you can get a superb view of the whole region.

Garlande Hotel is a charming estate that offers guests a unique experience in a 17th-century Provençal-style mansion in the heart of Avignon.

Located in the Chapelle part of the Couvent des Grands Augustins, built in the 15th century, this hotel provides a stay in a listed historic monument in Aix en Provence.

Discover more places to stay in Provence.

History of the Cotes de Provence wine region

The Cotes de Provence wine area has a long and rich wine history that dates back to 600BC and was recognized by European royal courts in the 15th century. The Ligures, Celtics, Greeks, Romans, Counts of Provence, and, lastly, Louis XI of France ruled over the territory. Viticulture and winemaking were passed down from numerous cultures across time and are still practiced today. In 1951, the region was granted a VDQS, which was then raised to an AOC in 1977. Bordeaux varietals arrived in the Cotes de Provence only after WWII.

The terroir and geography of the Cotes de Provence wine region

The Cotes de Provence wine area is the largest wine-growing district in Southeastern France, with around 50,000 acres of vineyard. Because of its size, the region's landscape is diversified and is split into four geographical zones: Sainte-Victoire, Frejus, Pierrefeu, and La Londe. The climate varies from cool subalpine at Seilans in the north to seaside in the east. The soil is predominantly calcareous in the north and west, however, there is crystalline soil in the southern and eastern portions. The region's rolling hills can be seen in the north and west. The wines produced are heavily impacted by geological and climatic characteristics.

Popular grape varieties from the Cotes de Provence wine region

Rose wines dominate the region, accounting for more than 80% of total wine production. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, and Cinsault are used to make these wines. Cabernet Sauvignon, Vermentino, Semillon, Carignan, Braquet, Tibouren, Clairette, Marsanne, Bourboulenc, and Ugni Blanc are among the other grape varieties grown in the Cotes de Provence region.

Food to pair with Cotes de Provence wine 

Hummus

Hummus is a renowned Levantine meal that is adored worldwide. It's a beige spread that's popular for breakfast. Mashed chickpeas, tahini, sesame paste, lemon juice, cumin, olive oil, paprika, parsley, and garlic are used to make this dish. Hummus can also be served as a dip or as an appetizer with mezze. The dish is commonly served as a side dish to Middle Eastern cuisines such as Falafel and Sabich. Hummus is high in nutrients and has a sour flavor. Although its exact beginnings are unknown, it was first referenced in Egypt in the 13th century.

Pasta Carbonara

Carbonara is a classic Roman dish prepared with eggs, hard cheese, cured pig, and black pepper. The dish gained popularity around the middle of the twentieth century. Coating the pasta is typically done with Pecorino Romano, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or a combination of the two. Carbonara is made by combining spaghetti, guanciale, egg yolks, and Pecorino Romano cheese. This meal is popular in Rome and throughout the country despite its simplicity. Even though carbonara is now a popular Roman dish, its origins are frequently debated.

Selles-sur-Cher

Selles-sur-Cher is a crumbly cheese made from full-fat goat's milk and sprinkled with wood ash to create a characteristic rind with a strong minerality. The term 'Selles' refers to the cheese's disk form. This cheese is made in Western Sologne, which encompasses the Cher region of France. The texture is similar to damp clay, while the flavor is salty, goaty, nutty, and grassy. The nutty flavor becomes more noticeable as it ripens. Eating the rind with the cheese imparts a more pungent, harsher flavor due to the ash residue and mold.

It, like most goat cheeses, goes nicely with dry white wines from the Cotes de Provence.

Places to visit in the Cotes de Provence wine region

Promenade des Anglais

The Promenade des Anglais is a famous French seaside strip located on the Mediterranean coast of Nice. This magnificent location stretches from the Nice Côte d'Azur Airport to the Quai des Etats-Unis in the east. This calming hub for residents stretches over nearly 7 kilometres. On weekends, the neighbourhood is popular with cyclists and families. The region has recently gained popularity among skateboarders and in-line skaters. Relax with a bottle of Cotes de Provence wine while admiring the scenery.

Old Port of Marseille

The old port of Marseille, known in French as Vieux-Port de Marseille, is located on Canebiere, a significant street in Marseille. Marseille was founded in this location, which was originally known as Lacydon. The harbour is the city's oldest, having stood for centuries. Marseille's historic harbour is the city's most recognizable landmark and a favourite meeting place for people. The port remains busy because it serves as a hub for the fish market. Two defensive towers, Saint Nicolas and Saint Jean fort, which are encircled by limestone cliffs, support the harbour. This is a must-see destination in the Cotes de Provence wine area. Learn about the history and culture of the wine region of Cotes de Provence.

Frequently asked questions about Cotes de Provence