Provence - Wine Regions
Côtes de Provence AOC
Côtes de Provence AOC is the largest and most well-known appellation in Provence, covering a wide area from the Mediterranean coast to the inland hills. This region is particularly famous for its high-quality rosé wines, which make up about 90% of the production. The rosés are typically pale in color, with flavors of red berries, citrus, and herbs, reflecting the local terroir and Mediterranean influence. In addition to rosé, Côtes de Provence also produces elegant reds and fresh, aromatic whites. The diversity of microclimates and soils within this large AOC allows for a wide range of wine styles, making it a cornerstone of Provençal wine culture.
Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence AOC
The Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence AOC is located in the western part of Provence, near the city of Aix-en-Provence. This appellation is known for its lively and fruity rosé wines, which are characterized by their fresh acidity and notes of red fruits and flowers. The region also produces well-structured red wines and crisp white wines, often featuring herbal and mineral notes that reflect the region’s unique terroir. The vineyards benefit from the warm, dry climate and cooling mistral winds, creating ideal conditions for viticulture. Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence wines are popular for their versatility and ability to pair well with Provençal cuisine.
Coteaux Varois en Provence AOC
Coteaux Varois en Provence AOC is a smaller appellation in the heart of Provence, known for its high-altitude vineyards that produce wines with bright acidity and vibrant fruit flavors. The region’s rosés are fresh and lively, with notes of citrus, peach, and wildflowers. In addition to rosé, the appellation also produces reds and whites that showcase the region’s diverse terroir, ranging from limestone to clay soils. The cooler climate in this area, due to its elevation, results in wines with a distinct freshness and balance, making it a hidden gem within Provence.
Bandol AOC
Bandol AOC is one of Provence’s most prestigious appellations, located near the coast between Toulon and Marseille. The region is renowned for its powerful and age-worthy red wines made primarily from Mourvèdre, a grape that thrives in the warm Mediterranean climate. Bandol’s reds are robust and complex, with flavors of dark fruit, spice, and earthy notes. The region also produces elegant rosés and some white wines, all of which benefit from the region’s sunny, dry conditions and limestone-rich soils. Bandol wines are highly sought after for their depth, structure, and ability to age gracefully.
Cassis AOC
Cassis AOC is a small but renowned appellation located on the Mediterranean coast near the town of Cassis. This region is known for its distinctive white wines, which make up the majority of the production. The wines are made primarily from Marsanne, Clairette, and Ugni Blanc, resulting in aromatic, full-bodied whites with notes of citrus, stone fruits, and herbs. The region’s proximity to the sea imparts a unique saline quality to the wines, making them ideal for pairing with seafood. Cassis also produces small amounts of rosé and red wines, but it is the whites that truly define this appellation’s character.
Bellet AOC
Bellet AOC is a tiny appellation located on the hills surrounding Nice, producing wines that are as unique as the region’s microclimate. The vineyards are perched on steep terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, with a mix of ancient and rare grape varieties. Bellet’s white wines, made primarily from Rolle (Vermentino), are aromatic and fresh, with floral and citrus notes. The red wines, often made from Braquet and Folle Noire, are light and spicy with herbal undertones. The rosés from Bellet are delicate and complex, reflecting the region’s distinctive terroir. Bellet wines are highly prized for their rarity and connection to the historic vineyards of Nice.
Les Baux-de-Provence AOC
Les Baux-de-Provence AOC is a small but highly regarded appellation located in the Alpilles mountains. The region is known for its organic and biodynamic farming practices, with most vineyards certified organic. The wines produced here are primarily robust reds made from Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre, with flavors of dark fruit, garrigue herbs, and spice. The region also produces rosés and whites that are fresh and aromatic. The unique combination of limestone soils, abundant sunshine, and cooling winds from the Alpilles creates wines with both power and elegance. Les Baux-de-Provence is celebrated for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and the expression of its terroir.
Palette AOC
Palette AOC is one of the smallest and most historic appellations in Provence, located near Aix-en-Provence. The region is known for its complex and age-worthy wines, produced from a wide variety of indigenous and rare grape varieties. The reds are rich and structured, with notes of black fruit, spices, and earthy undertones. The whites are full-bodied and aromatic, with flavors of pear, almond, and floral notes. Palette also produces rosés that are elegant and balanced. The vineyards in Palette are often very old, with some dating back several centuries, contributing to the depth and character of the wines. The appellation is a hidden treasure for those seeking traditional Provençal wines with a sense of history.