Provence - Wineries and Vineyards
Château d’Esclans
Château d’Esclans is one of the most famous wineries in Provence, known for producing some of the world’s most celebrated rosé wines, including the iconic Whispering Angel. Located in the heart of the Côtes de Provence, the estate focuses on producing high-quality rosés with a distinct elegance and complexity. The vineyard benefits from a mix of limestone and clay soils, which contribute to the wine’s vibrant character. Château d’Esclans has played a major role in elevating the global reputation of Provence rosé, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.
Domaine Tempier
Domaine Tempier is a historic estate located in the Bandol appellation, renowned for its powerful and age-worthy red wines made primarily from Mourvèdre. The estate’s history dates back to the 18th century, and it has been a key player in defining the character of Bandol wines. In addition to its famous reds, Domaine Tempier also produces excellent rosés and whites, all crafted with a deep respect for tradition and terroir. The vineyard’s limestone-rich soils and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea result in wines that are complex, structured, and full of character.
Château de Pibarnon
Château de Pibarnon is another standout estate in Bandol, known for its exceptional red wines that showcase the potential of Mourvèdre. The estate’s vineyards are situated on terraced slopes with unique blue marl soils, which impart a distinct minerality and freshness to the wines. Château de Pibarnon’s reds are known for their elegance, depth, and ability to age for decades. The estate also produces rosés that are refined and expressive, reflecting the complexity of the terroir. A visit to Château de Pibarnon offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a deep dive into the world of Bandol wines.
Domaine Ott
Domaine Ott is a prestigious estate with three distinct properties: Château de Selle, Clos Mireille, and Château Romassan, each located in a different part of Provence. Domaine Ott is celebrated for its high-quality rosé wines, which are elegant, aromatic, and beautifully balanced. The estate’s flagship rosé, ‘Coeur de Grain,’ is a benchmark for the region. In addition to rosé, Domaine Ott produces structured reds and whites that are expressive of the diverse terroirs across its properties. The estate’s commitment to quality and tradition has made it one of the leading names in Provençal winemaking.
Château Minuty
Château Minuty, located in the heart of the Saint-Tropez peninsula, is known for producing some of Provence’s most iconic rosé wines. The estate’s vineyards benefit from a Mediterranean climate and sea breezes, resulting in wines that are fresh, vibrant, and full of character. Château Minuty’s rosés, particularly the popular ‘M de Minuty,’ are known for their pale color, crisp acidity, and delicate flavors of citrus and red berries. The estate also produces elegant whites and reds that are reflective of the region’s terroir. Château Minuty’s wines are widely regarded as a symbol of the Provençal lifestyle.
Domaine de Trévallon
Domaine de Trévallon is a highly respected estate located in the Les Baux-de-Provence appellation, known for its unique red wines made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. The estate’s owner, Eloi Dürrbach, took an unconventional approach by planting these varietals in a region traditionally dominated by Grenache and Mourvèdre. The resulting wines are complex, age-worthy, and have garnered a cult following. Domaine de Trévallon also produces outstanding whites that are rich and full-bodied. The estate’s commitment to organic farming and low-intervention winemaking has made it a pioneer in the region.
Château Sainte Roseline
Château Sainte Roseline is a historic estate located in the Côtes de Provence appellation, with origins dating back to the 11th century. The château is known for producing premium wines, including rosés, reds, and whites, all of which are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The estate’s vineyards are planted on limestone-rich soils, providing ideal conditions for growing grapes that are expressive of the terroir. Château Sainte Roseline’s wines are consistently praised for their balance, finesse, and depth. In addition to its winemaking, the estate is a popular venue for art exhibitions and cultural events, making it a vibrant cultural hub in the region.
Château Gassier
Château Gassier is located in the Sainte-Victoire sub-region of the Côtes de Provence, an area known for producing some of the best rosés in Provence. The estate’s vineyards are situated at the foot of the Sainte-Victoire mountain, benefiting from a unique microclimate that combines Mediterranean warmth with cooling winds. Château Gassier’s rosés are elegant, fresh, and aromatic, with notes of citrus, peach, and wildflowers. The estate is also committed to sustainable farming practices, enhancing the quality and purity of its wines. Château Gassier offers visitors a stunning setting to explore Provençal wine and nature.
Commanderie de Peyrassol
Commanderie de Peyrassol is a historic estate with origins dating back to the 13th century when it was founded by the Knights Templar. Located in the heart of the Côtes de Provence, the estate is renowned for its high-quality rosés, as well as its reds and whites. The wines are known for their finesse, balance, and expression of the region’s terroir. The estate is also home to an impressive art collection, with contemporary sculptures and installations scattered throughout the vineyards. Commanderie de Peyrassol offers a unique blend of history, art, and winemaking, making it a top destination for wine lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Domaine de la Bégude
Domaine de la Bégude is an estate located in the Bandol appellation, known for its powerful red wines made from Mourvèdre. The estate’s vineyards are planted on rocky terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, creating wines that are robust, structured, and full of character. Domaine de la Bégude also produces excellent rosés and whites, all crafted with a focus on organic farming and minimal intervention. The estate’s high-altitude vineyards and limestone soils contribute to the freshness and balance of its wines. Domaine de la Bégude is a standout producer in Bandol, offering wines that truly reflect the unique terroir of the region.
Domaine de Terrebrune
Domaine de Terrebrune is a highly regarded estate in the Bandol appellation, producing wines that are known for their elegance, minerality, and longevity. The estate’s vineyards are located on limestone terraces, which impart a distinctive freshness and complexity to the wines. The red wines, made primarily from Mourvèdre, are deep, structured, and capable of aging for decades. Domaine de Terrebrune also produces exceptional rosés and whites that are fresh, balanced, and aromatic. The estate’s commitment to organic farming and respect for the environment make it a leader in sustainable winemaking in the region.
Clos Sainte Magdeleine
Clos Sainte Magdeleine is an iconic estate located in the Cassis appellation, perched on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The estate is best known for its white wines, which are made primarily from Marsanne and Clairette. These wines are aromatic, full-bodied, and have a distinctive saline quality that reflects the estate’s coastal location. Clos Sainte Magdeleine also produces elegant rosés that are delicate and fresh. The estate’s unique terroir, stunning views, and commitment to traditional winemaking methods make it one of the most celebrated producers in Cassis.
Domaine Bertaud Belieu
Domaine Bertaud Belieu is located near Saint-Tropez and is known for producing some of the region’s most sought-after rosé wines. The estate’s vineyards are planted on a mix of clay and limestone soils, which contribute to the wine’s fresh acidity and complex flavors. Domaine Bertaud Belieu’s rosés are popular for their pale color, crispness, and notes of citrus and red berries. The estate’s connection to the glamorous lifestyle of Saint-Tropez has made its wines a favorite among celebrities and luxury venues. In addition to rosé, the estate also produces limited quantities of red and white wines.
Château Miraval
Château Miraval is perhaps one of the most famous estates in Provence, thanks in part to its celebrity owners, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. However, it is the quality of the wine that truly stands out. Located in the Côtes de Provence, the estate produces a highly regarded rosé that is consistently praised for its elegance, freshness, and aromatic complexity. The vineyards are situated in a secluded valley, benefiting from a unique microclimate that enhances the quality of the grapes. Château Miraval also produces limited quantities of red and white wines. The estate’s combination of luxury, history, and winemaking expertise makes it a must-visit destination in Provence.
Domaine de la Citadelle
Domaine de la Citadelle is located in the Luberon region of Provence, known for its diverse range of wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area. The estate produces rosés, reds, and whites that are expressive, well-balanced, and true to the Luberon’s distinct climate and soil. In addition to its wine production, Domaine de la Citadelle is home to a corkscrew museum and an extensive botanical garden. The estate’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and quality has made it a leading producer in the Luberon and a popular destination for wine tourism.