Provence

Provence lies in south-eastern France, between the Rhône, the Alps and the Mediterranean. The Romans called the area provincia nostra, and the region takes its name from that first Roman province beyond Italy. Its climate is predominantly Mediterranean, with abundant sunshine, dry summers and moderating influences from the sea and elevation. The strong, dry mistral can rapidly dry vineyards after rain, although it may also restrain vine growth and yields.

The region’s soils are notably varied. Limestone and clay are widespread, alongside gravel, sand, schist and crystalline rock in the Massif des Maures and around Fréjus. Altitude, coastal proximity and soil structure all shape freshness and expression. Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Mourvèdre are the principal grapes in many red and rosé blends. Rolle, the local name for Vermentino, is important for whites, with Clairette, Ugni Blanc and sometimes Sémillon also appearing in blends.

Rosé is by far the leading style, generally dry, pale in colour and intended for relatively early drinking. At its best, it combines red-fruit and citrus notes with herbs and a saline or stony edge. White Provence may be fresh and floral, or gain more texture from riper Rolle and careful maturation. Red wines tend to be spicy and distinctly Mediterranean, marked by dark fruit and garrigue. Bandol, where Mourvèdre is central, is particularly known for structured reds that can age well.

There is no single cru classification covering all of Provence. The major regional appellations are Côtes de Provence, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence and Coteaux Varois en Provence, alongside smaller appellations including Bandol, Cassis, Bellet, Palette, Les Baux-de-Provence and Pierrevert. Côtes de Provence also has geographical denominations such as Sainte-Victoire, Fréjus and La Londe. Bandol, Cassis and villages including La Cadière-d’Azur and Ramatuelle are familiar names. Most rosés show best in youth, while serious rosé, white wines and especially red Bandol can develop over several years or longer.