Bellet AOC

• Vermentino (Rolle): vibrant and floral, with citrus, peach, and herbal hints, often showing a slight salty note from the coastal influence.
• Braquet: native to the region, producing light to medium-bodied reds and rosés with lively red berry flavors and gentle floral notes.
• Folle Noire (Fuella Nera): traditional red grape adding color, spice, dark cherry flavors, and firm tannins to blends; some aged in oak for complexity.
• Grenache & Cinsault: key blending grapes; Grenache offers rich red fruit, while Cinsault adds a floral lift and softness.
• Wine Styles: primarily still wines; whites are fresh and aromatic, rosés are dry and pale, and reds range from light with herbal scents to robust, age-worthy versions.
• Other Whites: southern varieties enhance blends with body and floral aromas.

Perched on the eastern edge of Provence, the vineyards of Bellet thrive under the unique influence of their terroir and climate. Nestled beneath the Alps, these vineyards stretch across sun-drenched south and east-facing hillsides, reaching elevations up to 400 meters. The rocky "puddingstone" soils, rich with quartz, limestone, and sand, ensure excellent drainage and retain the sun's warmth, contributing to the complexity of the wine.

With a Mediterranean climate tempered by elevation, the region enjoys long, warm summers and mild winters. The generous 2,800 hours of annual sunshine and 800–850 mm of rainfall, mainly in cooler months, create favorable conditions for viticulture. Breezes from the mountains and sea bring temperature shifts that enhance acidity and aromas. The varied microclimates, influenced by slope and altitude, add layers of character, making each vineyard site distinct in its aromatic expression.

The charming hills of Nice, particularly within the Bellet AOC, host a selection of notable wineries that embody the region's winemaking heritage. Here are some highlights:

• Château de Bellet: A historic estate crafting red, white, and rosé wines using local grapes, capturing the essence of the Bellet terroir.
• Château de Crémat: Famous for its distinctive reds and refreshing rosés, this vineyard boasts breathtaking views of Nice from its hilltop location.
• Clos Saint-Vincent: Esteemed for its Rolle (Vermentino) and Braquet wines, this domaine is a pillar of quality in the Bellet region.
• Domaine de Toasc: A family-run estate committed to producing quality wines under both Bellet and local IGP labels.
• Domaine de la Source: Known for its expressive whites, rosés, and reds, this winery has a long-standing family tradition in Bellet.

The sun-drenched terraces of the Bellet AOC, nestled in the hills of Nice, offer an ideal environment for sustainable viticulture. Organic and biodynamic practices thrive here due to the region's natural conditions, such as breezy slopes that deter pests. Vineyards focus on dry farming, conserving water and enhancing soil health without relying on irrigation.

Producers are increasingly turning to disease-resistant grape varieties, reducing chemical use while maintaining quality. The use of native yeast, minimal intervention, and limited oak aging ensure that the wines reflect their unique terroir. Solar energy powers many operations, while gravity-fed cellars and recycling programs underscore a commitment to eco-friendly winemaking.

This approach not only preserves the delicate hillside environment but also enhances the rich, artisanal heritage of the wines, ensuring that the flavors of this unique Côte d’Azur locale continue to enchant wine lovers both near and far.

Wine tourism in the vicinity of Nice offers a unique blend of coastal charm and hillside vineyard exploration. The proximity to Nice, Cannes, and Monaco allows for easy day trips to renowned estates like Château de Crémat and Château de Bellet, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views and taste local specialties.

• Wine Routes: Traverse scenic routes linking Bellet to nearby villages, with opportunities for spontaneous cellar visits and festival tastings of Vermentino and Braquet wines.
• Culinary Pairings: Experience the harmony between local wines and Provençal cuisine, featuring dishes like socca and pissaladière at estate restaurants.
• Outdoor Activities: Engage in hiking and biking through vineyard landscapes, complemented by wellness events and tranquil garden spaces.

Most wines are sold locally, making estate visits essential for discovering these limited-production gems.