Provence

• Provence Rosé: internationally celebrated for its pale color, dry profile, and delicate aromas of citrus, red berries, and white peach; lively acidity and a subtle mineral or saline finish.
• Grenache: the foundation grape, imparting body, richness, and vibrant red berry fruit.
• Cinsault: valued for its freshness, delicate fruit character, and bright, lively palate.
• Syrah: adds structure, color, and subtle notes of black fruit and spice to blends.
• Mourvèdre: central to both rosé and the robust reds of Bandol, lending complexity, structure, and age-worthiness with flavors of dark fruit and Provençal herbs.
• Tibouren: a unique local variety, prized for its elegance and distinctive aromatic lift in rosé.
• Bandol Rouge: powerful, structured, and designed for aging; dominated by Mourvèdre with deep flavors of black fruit, leather, and garrigue.
• White Wines: aromatic and fresh, led by Rolle (Vermentino) which produces citrus and pear-driven wines; Cassis whites are full-bodied with a saline note, crafted mainly from Marsanne and Clairette.
• Appellation Diversity: from the versatile Côtes de Provence and high-altitude Coteaux Varois to the organic Les Baux-de-Provence and historic Palette, each AOP expresses its unique terroir through distinctive blends and styles.

Provence's diverse terroir encompasses coastal plains, rolling hills, and mountainous regions, each contributing distinct characteristics to its wines. The Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, provides ideal conditions for viticulture, ensuring grapes achieve optimal ripeness while maintaining necessary acidity. The Mistral wind plays a crucial role in promoting vine health by reducing humidity and disease risk. Varied soils, from limestone and clay to schist and sand, impart unique flavors and textures to the wines. Coastal influences help moderate temperatures, enhancing the aromatic profile and freshness of the grapes. This harmonious blend of climate and geology results in expressive, well-balanced wines that capture the essence of Provençal terroir, showcasing the historical and modern diversity of the region's appellations.

Provence's winemaking scene is renowned for its blend of historical reverence and forward-thinking innovation, reflected in its notable wineries that define the region's global prestige.

• Domaine Tempier: A Bandol icon famed for its robust Mourvèdre reds and refined rosés, celebrated for their aging potential and depth.
• Château Simone: Located in Palette, this estate is revered for crafting intricate, age-worthy wines on unique limestone terroir.
• Domaines Ott: Pioneers of prestige rosé, known for their iconic amphora-shaped bottles and terroir-driven wines from multiple estates.
• Château d'Esclans: This Côtes de Provence estate, credited with elevating Provence rosé to global fame, offers the renowned Whispering Angel.
• Château La Coste: A biodynamic estate in Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, combining winemaking with a cultural experience of art and architecture.
• Château de Pibarnon: Esteemed for its high-altitude Mourvèdre wines in Bandol, balancing intensity with elegance.

Provence is at the forefront of sustainable winemaking in France, driven by its favorable climate and committed local strategies. The Vins de Provence wine council aims for all vineyards to achieve organic or HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) certification by 2030. By 2020, 40% of vineyards had already reached this milestone, underscoring the region's dedication to sustainable practices as a core component of its future. The region's approach to sustainability incorporates various eco-friendly techniques. Growers leverage the dry Mistral wind to naturally reduce disease risk, while cover crops like clover and vetch are planted to enhance soil health and eliminate the need for chemical herbicides. Biodiversity is encouraged by maintaining forests and hedgerows, supporting beneficial wildlife. In response to water scarcity, targeted drip irrigation and water recycling in cellars are employed. Additionally, innovative projects like "La Consigne de Provence" are reviving bottle reuse systems, and research into heat-resistant grape varieties is ensuring the traditional Provence style endures in a changing climate.

Wine tourism in Provence offers a unique way to experience the region's rich history and diverse landscape. With 444 wineries spread across 44 themed routes, visitors can explore based on location, wine type, or engaging themes like "Terroir La Londe" with vineyards facing the sea. This immersive experience allows one to appreciate Provence's famed rosé wines and the influence of its varied terroirs, from coastal plains to rolling hills. The Mediterranean climate, coupled with the cooling Mistral wind, creates ideal conditions for growing grapes that express the unique flavors and aromas of the region. Beyond tastings, wineries offer a range of experiences to deepen the understanding of Provençal viticulture. Tours and tastings vary from complimentary experiences to detailed flights, while gastronomic pairings highlight local specialties like cheeses and charcuterie. Workshops and masterclasses provide hands-on opportunities to learn about blending and food pairing. For those seeking more, immersive activities such as vineyard picnics, guided hikes, and art walks at places like Château La Coste offer a blend of culture and winemaking. Seasonal wine festivals celebrate the region's vibrant wine culture, ensuring that every visit to Provence is both educational and memorable.