Welcome to the AOC Côtes-de-Provence, a world-renowned wine appellation mainly known for its delicious rosé wines. Nevertheless, as we will discover together, Côtes-de-Provence is not limited to just this one color!
This fascinating vineyard is therefore worth exploring and is much more diverse than it appears. Let’s discover together the history of the wine-growing terroirs of this appellation and set off to discover its diverse wines. Ready to embark on a southern-flavored taste adventure? Let’s go!
Summary
History of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence
The wine history of Côtes-de-Provence begins with the arrival of the Phocaeans on the Provençal coast, in the 6th century BC. Indeed, it was these Greek settlers who founded the trading post of Massalia (now Marseille) and planted the first vines in the region.
From the 2nd century BC, the Romans conquered the region and expanded the vineyard thanks to a network of trade routes.
In the Middle Ages, after the fall of the Roman Empire, viticulture declined throughout France. However, from the 5th century, Benedictine and Cistercian monks played a major role and gave new impetus to the vineyards of France. They then cultivated vines on the lands surrounding their abbeys and perfected production techniques. Provence thus became an important wine region, with wine accompanying both religious celebrations and daily life.
From the 16th century, the wines of Provence gained in notoriety. At that time, the region mainly produced very pale red wines, foreshadowing modern rosé. The Mediterranean ports also facilitated the trade of Provençal wine, which was appreciated throughout Europe.
The name “Côtes-de-Provence” apparently appeared for the first time in 1858, from the association dedicated to defending the Provençal vineyard.
Nevertheless, as in other French wine regions, the vineyards of Provence were severely affected by phylloxera at the end of the 19th century. This parasite destroyed a large part of the region’s vines. Over the following decades, producers patiently and tirelessly rebuilt their vineyards.
From the 1950s to the 1970s, rosé finally took on an important role in the region and became, thanks to its freshness and elegance, the signature of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence. In 1977, the appellation Côtes-de-Provence was officially created, thus definitively recognizing the quality and typicity of the region’s wines.
Today, Côtes-de-Provence covers a vast area of about 20,000 hectares spread over several departments (Var, Bouches-du-Rhône, and Alpes-Maritimes) and varied terroirs.
Climate and soils of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence
The climate of the AOP Côtes-de-Provence is typically Mediterranean. The region indeed benefits from over 2,700 hours of sunshine per year, which favor excellent grape ripening. Annual rainfall is in line with the French average and allows for a good balance for vine growth.
As for terroir, the soils of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence are very varied. In the Maures massif, for example, the vines grow mainly on schist and sandstone, allowing for excellent drainage. In certain areas of the Var and Sainte-Baume, the soils are more clay-sandy. Finally, some parts of the vineyard are based on limestone soils, bringing finesse and minerality to the wines.
Vineyard within the AOC Côtes-de-Provence
The wines of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence
Although the rosés are the flagship of the Côtes-de-Provence appellation, it also produces delicious red and white wines. Here is an overview of the main styles of cuvées you might encounter during a tasting.
Côtes-de-Provence rosés
Representing nearly 90% of the appellation’s production, Côtes-de-Provence rosés are the emblem of the region. They are mainly made from the grape varieties Grenache noir, Syrah, Cinsault and Mourvèdre. Other varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, Tibouren, as well as various white grape varieties (notably Rolle) can also complement the blends.
The color of these wines is generally very pale, reflecting a very short maceration time, in order to visually highlight the freshness and finesse of the cuvées produced.
On the palate, Côtes-de-Provence rosés reveal a light structure as well as a refreshing balance. Notes of red fruits (strawberry, raspberry, redcurrant), citrus (lemon, grapefruit), and sometimes stone fruits (peach, apricot) can be detected. The notion of minerality is also often present during tasting.
In the vast majority of cases, these cuvées are meant to be enjoyed in their youth, within 2 to 3 years maximum. They are also ideally enjoyed between 8-10°C to make the most of their beautiful freshness.
Côtes-de-Provence rosé: between freshness and elegance
Côtes-de-Provence reds
The red wines represent 6% of the production of the Côtes-de-Provence appellation and are made from the same grape varieties used for rosé production, except of course for the white varieties.
The reds of the AOP are generally distinguished by a deep purple color, sometimes with mauve highlights. On the palate, these are wines offering a generous texture brought by the sun as well as tannins that can be robust but are often smooth. Aromas of red and black fruits can be perceived, accompanied by a spicy touch (pepper, garrigue, licorice) and sometimes a hint of chocolate. Some cuvées are also aged in oak barrels, which then impart notes of oak, vanilla, and spices to the whole.
The reds of the AOC are generally enjoyed in their youth, but most of them can also improve in the cellar for 5 to 8 years. Serving between 16-18°C is also recommended to fully enjoy this type of wine.
Côtes de Provence whites
Less known to the general public but just as remarkable, the white wines of Côtes-de-Provence seduce with their finesse and aromatic subtlety. These wines are made from the varieties Vermentino (also called Rolle), Clairette, Sémillon and Ugni blanc.
The whites of Provence usually offer citrus notes (lemon, grapefruit, lime) as well as spicy aromas such as thyme or rosemary. Some crus can be aged in oak barrels to bring a rounder texture and indulgente and give aromas of oak, butter, and vanilla.
Most Provençal white wines are best enjoyed in their youth, within 3 to 5 years maximum, and are best tasted at a temperature between 8-10°C (10-12°C for more full-bodied and complex oaked cuvées).
The Crus Classés of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence
Little known fact, the notion of “Cru Classé” also exists in Provence... although it does not have the same weight or interest as in Bordeaux or Burgundy.
Created in 1955, the mention Cru Classé was indeed awarded by a jury to 23 estates and châteaux of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence, based on mainly historical and not qualitative criteria.
Moreover, unlike the Bordeaux classification of 1855 (from which the Provençal classification is largely inspired), all the cuvées of a given estate can bear the mention “Cru Classé” on their bottle.
Today, only 18 estates retain this status, some having since disappeared or been sold. Here is the list:
- Château Sainte-Roseline
- Château Sainte-Marguerite
- Château Minuty
- Domaine de la Clapière
- Clos Cibonne
- Domaine de Rimaurescq
- Château de Saint-Martin
- Château Roubine
- Château du Galoupet
- Château de Saint-Maur
- Domaine de Mauvanne
- Domaine de la Croix
- Domaine de l'Aumérade
- Clos Mireille (Domaines Ott)
- Château de Selle (Domaines Ott)
- Château de Brégançon
- Domaine du Jas d'Esclans
- Domaine du Noyer
Château Sainte Roseline: an iconic Cru Classé of Côtes-de-Provence
What to eat with a wine from the AOC Côtes-de-Provence?
Nothing beats a good meal to make a wine from the AOP Côtes-de-Provence shine! Whether you are enjoying a rosé, a red, or a white, here are some pairing suggestions to enhance each wine and bring out all its flavors.
Pairings with Côtes-de-Provence rosés
Light, fruity, and refreshing, Côtes-de-Provence rosés are perfect for aperitif, but also to accompany light dishes. Whether it’s summer salads, grilled fish, or even tapas and appetizers, their fruity, lively, and floral notes will awaken your taste buds with every sip.
Côtes-de-Provence rosés: perfect to enhance your appetizers
Pairings with Côtes-de-Provence red wines
More full-bodied and powerful, Côtes-de-Provence red wines are perfect with richly flavored dishes. So here, opt for grilled meats, white or red (chicken, beef, lamb, etc.).
Pairings with Côtes-de-Provence white wines
Fresh and elegant, Côtes-de-Provence white wine is perfect to accompany seafood, grilled fish, or even sushi. It is also delicious as an aperitif thanks to its lightness and freshness.
The best wines of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence
Before ending our journey in Côtes-de-Provence, let’s stop by some of the region’s iconic estates. These properties produce wines that, in our view, truly capture the essence of the Côtes-de-Provence appellation.
Château Sainte Marguerite
Located in La Londe-les-Maures, the Château Sainte Marguerite is a must for wine lovers in the region.
Cru Classé, this certified organic estate owned by the Fayard family is renowned for its classy, elegant, and fruity rosés, perfect for awakening the senses. The reds and whites are not to be outdone, and the property produces superb cuvées in all colors.
Discover their range—you won’t be disappointed!
Domaine La Navicelle
The Domaine La Navicelle is also a fine example of what Provençal wines have to offer at their best.
The estate offers a range of rosé, white, and red wines that stand out for their structure and aromatic richness. Here too, the 21 hectares are cultivated organically.
Discover their cuvées full of freshness and pleasure!
Domaine Figuière
Founded in 1979 by Alain Combard, the Domaine Figuière has always been guided by the principles of organic farming, a commitment adopted out of respect for its terroir and family.
Today, his children Delphine, Magali, and François continue the family tradition by producing a range of high-quality wines. The estate stands out for its perfectly balanced wines, with notes of fresh fruit and a beautiful length on the palate, offering a true immersion in the Provençal terroir.
As you can see, the Côtes-de-Provence appellation is a must for all lovers of quality wines, whether rosé, white, or red! All that’s left is to explore this beautiful vineyard by opening a few well-chosen bottles. For that, don’t hesitate to check out La Cave Éclairée ! See you soon for more discoveries...
