Wine tourism: four reasons to visit a winery in Provence
Get off the beaten track! Forget the WINE ROUTES Alsace, Burgundy or Bordeaux! Provence offers grape lovers magnificent landscapes, a rich heritage and a lively cultural life. Here are four excellent reasons to spend your vacations on a wine estate in Provence.
1. You taste top-quality Provencal wines
A perfect environment for vineyards
The superb Provence landscapes have great mineralogical potential for vine-growing. It grows easily on the slopes of the Sainte-Baume, Maures and Esterel massifs. The limestone garrigue to the west and the crystalline maquis to the east provide a formidable substrate. Good sunshine and a powerful mistral protect it from disease. These ideal conditions develop the grapes' delicious aromas.
A region renowned for its rosés
Each year, rosé wine represents 88 % of 160 million bottles produced in Provence. The regional harvest is divided between three Appellations d'Origine Contrôlées:
- Côtes de Provence ;
- Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence ;
- Coteaux Varois in Provence.
Varied, environmentally-friendly production
Five hundred and fifty winegrowers cultivate locally more than twelve grape varieties. Syrah, Cinsault, Grenache, Clairette, Cabernet Sauvignon and Semillon occupy the region's 27,500 hectares. Approximately 30 % of this land benefits from organic farming techniques. Some are located in nature reserves, helping to preserve a wild environment.
2. Learn about the rich history of winegrowing in Provence
France's oldest vineyards
Provence is a land of terroir and heritage. Its first vines were planted by the Phocaeans in the 6th century BC. They largely predate those of the Rhône, Burgundy or Bordeaux regions. Under the influence of the Romans, wine was exported throughout the Mediterranean.
The land of vines and grapes
Monastic orders took up the torch in medieval times. They founded new wine estates and developed the region's crops. The numerous Cistercian abbeys of Provence still bear witness to this past influence.
3. A real sense of hospitality at a wine estate in Provence
Cultural and heritage activities at wineries in Provence
Art galleries, music festivals or open-air cinemas: winegrowers attract wine tourists from all over the world with a wide range of activities. They promote their know-how and offer visits to their vineyards. With or without a guide, long hikes allow you to learn more about the Provencal grape.
A true paradise for gourmets
To win over their guests, the great winegrowing estates place great emphasis on gastronomy. Star-rated restaurants flourish in the region. They serve traditional southeastern dishes accompanied by prestigious wines. Cooking classes and culinary workshops extend the experience beyond the table.
A bubble of well-being in Provence's winegrowing estates
After a tasting session, relax in a spa. These luxurious establishments offer relaxing treatments and rituals. Some even promise more original moments of relaxation. Centered around grapes, the spa Vinésime du château de Berne offers you a an extraordinary experience.
4. Stay at a wine estate in Provence that breaks the mould
A chic yet relaxed atmosphere
Let yourself be charmed by our two-storey villa. With balcony or terrace, our rooms plunge you into the heart of our vineyards. They offer you a well-deserved rest in a green setting. For greater independence, choose one of our studios or apartments. Their kitchenettes let you enjoy your meals vacations in the Var.
Colourful, seasonal cuisine
Prepared with local and organic ingredients, our chef Romain Franceschi's dishes are a perfect match for our wines. His seasonal dishes respect the traditions of the Southwest. Their flavors elegantly underscore the fruity and floral notes of our Syrah grape variety.
Year-round events at your winery in Provence
We offer our guests a festive programming. Sunday brunches, DJs by the pool or rooftop concerts in the evening: festivities punctuate your stay. They help you relax and enjoy your vacation.
Enjoy an incredible wine-tourism experience in one of our Provence's finest wine estates. Between two strolls along the wine route, our tasting cellar welcomes you for a unique moment. So don't wait any longer! Reserve your home today at Ultimate Provence!
