Provence is the spiritual home of rose wine, producing more than half of all the rose consumed in France. The pale, dry roses of the Cotes de Provence have conquered dinner tables worldwide, and visiting the estates that make them is a deeply pleasurable experience. Tastings typically take place on sun-drenched terraces with views of vineyards, lavender fields and, in some cases, the Mediterranean coast. The estates around Les Arcs-sur-Argens, Lorgues and Vidauban are particularly welcoming, with well-equipped visitor facilities and English-speaking staff.
Bandol and Cassis: Provence's Premium Appellations
Bandol, on the coast west of Toulon, produces some of Provence's most serious wines. The reds, made primarily from Mourvèdre, are powerful and structured, requiring years of cellaring to reveal their full depth. Cellar visits here feel more intimate than at larger Cotes de Provence estates — book directly with the domaine for the best experience. Cassis, a small fishing port east of Marseille, is known for its crisp, mineral whites made from Marsanne, Clairette and Ugni Blanc. A tasting of Cassis white on the harbour terrace, with a plate of local seafood, is a Provence classic.
Combining Wine and Lifestyle in Provence
Wine is only part of the story in Provence. Many visitors combine their vineyard visits with lavender distillery tours in the Luberon, olive oil tastings at ancient mills, morning markets in Aix-en-Provence and swimming in the Calanques. Vineyard accommodation ranges from converted farmhouses to boutique estates with swimming pools and restaurant kitchens. Visit between May and October for the best combination of weather, open cellars and Provencal life at its most vibrant.
