The vineyards in Provence are a magical place, especially if you are a wine lover. The French Mediterranean region specialises in rosé, and producers here have been perfecting it since the Ancient Greeks. Rosé de Provence is a thing of legend.
The vineyards in Provence are the heart and soul of the French Rivera. And although every estate is unique and worthy of a visit, here are our favourite producers — 4 vineyards in Provence you must visit, especially if rosé makes your heart sing. These are some of the most spectacular vineyards in France.
1. Château Malherbe
Château Malherbe is an impressive Provencal estate with twenty-five hectares of vines overlooking the Mediterranean sea. These are amongst the most inspiring vineyards in France, and it’s thanks to the awe-inspiring views of the distinguished Fort de Brégançon, an ancient fortification nestled on an island.
Of course, you want to visit Château Malherbe for its wines. The estate produces two white wines, an inky red and a rosé. Their salmon-hued wine results from an extended maceration of between 24-36 hours, and the wine ages four months on lees or spent yeast, so expect a fruity nose and a mineral palate preceding a delicious lengthy aftertaste.
2. Château de Brégançon
Château de Brégançon is a historical estate in Provence, going back to 1816. It’s one of the few châteaux named the best-of-the-best in the region’s Classification of 1955, a big deal at that time.
This magnificent estate tends 42 hectares of vines caressed by the warm Mediterranean breeze, and they are a source of the loveliest pink wine: Isaure Rosé and La Réserve. Rosé represents 60% of the estate’s wine, but they make red and white wine as well, all from their prized vineyards, which, by the way, are farmed with sustainable methods. Brégançon is what you’d expect from a classified Château in Provence and much more.
3. Château Léoube
Château Léoube is one of the most exciting vineyards in Provence. They’re committed to organic farming and sustainability, and the result is guilt-free and delicious wine!
Love by Léoube is the estate’s flagship wine, and it’s a gold medallist and 90+ pointer. This is a fresh and fruity rosé made with Grenache and Cinsault, and it’s incredibly stylish and sophisticated. The best part about visiting Château Léoube is not the wine or its verdant vineyards, but the hospitality. You’ll feel right at home in the quality-minded estate. The Château has its own café, so this is where you want to spend your morning in Provence.
4. Château la Valetanne
Last but not least, if you’re in Provence, Château la Valetanne is a must-visit. You’ll find this exquisite property right between Toulon and Saint Tropez. Jérôme Constantin and his team make fantastic wine with only 14 hectares of vines; they produce three different rosés, all three 100% BIO and immensely satisfying.
La Valetanne is a small estate, but people here have a big heart. The wine is top-notch, and the experience in both the vineyards and winery is memorable. Here’s a tip: La Valentanne’s red wine might be the best in the area, so try it!
5. Domaine de la Sangliere
6. Domaine St. Marguerite
7. Chateau des Bormettes