Provence Wine Tour: Explore the Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire
Embark on an extraordinary Provence wine tour and meet your knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide, an expert in the region's wines. Enjoy the convenience of a hotel pick-up in Aix-en-Provence, where you'll meet your guide and receive a detailed overview of the program and itinerary for this half-day adventure. Step into our premium, air-conditioned minivan and relax as we venture into the scenic Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire wine producing region.
Discover the Majestic Sainte-Victoire Mountain
Immerse yourself in one of Provence's most iconic sites, the Sainte-Victoire Mountain. This remarkable natural heritage has been recognized as a 'Great Site of France' since 2004, alongside Mont Ventoux and the Sainte-Baume Mountain range. Located to the east of Aix-en-Provence, this picturesque area boasts forests, farmland, and pastoral landscapes, all crowned by the imposing stone monument that inspired Paul Cézanne's vibrant paintings.
Embark on a Journey to the Côtes de Provence Wine Region
In a small group limited to eight participants, our private half-day tour from Aix-en-Provence takes you through breathtaking landscapes en route to the Côtes de Provence wine region. Encompassing over 19,000 hectares (47,000 acres) and accounting for three-quarters of Provence's wine production, this esteemed A.O.C. region benefits from exceptional sunlight and diverse soil types. Limestone hills dominate the northwestern part, while the southwestern section features crystalline soil. This geological diversity yields a wide array of wines, including reds, whites, and the region's famous rosés. Traditional and local grape varieties such as Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Clairette contribute to the distinctive character of these wines.
Indulge in the Delights of Rosé Wines
The Côtes de Provence wine region is renowned for its exceptional rosé wines, constituting 80% of the entire production. These wines are characterized by their pale color and offer a rich aromatic complexity, with notes of white and yellow fruits, vanilla, and hazelnut.
Unveiling the Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire Territory
Recognized as an A.O.P territory in 2005 for both red and rosé wines, the Sainte-Victoire Mountain wine region showcases its unique terroir within the broader Côtes de Provence wine region. The territory's geological features, diverse landscapes, and warm, dry climate, enhanced by the Mistral wind, create favorable conditions for vine cultivation, warding off potential diseases.
Immerse Yourself in Wine Culture: Visit 2 Select Wineries
Upon reaching the Côtes de Provence wine region, your tour will unveil two carefully chosen, family-owned wineries. Begin with an introduction to the estate, its history, and the family behind the winemaking tradition. Delve into the winemaking process as you explore the technical facilities, gaining insights into the unique methods employed for red, white, and rosé wines. Witness the vat room and venture into the aging cellars, where you'll discover the significance of oak barrel aging and the craftsmanship of coopers.
Finally, indulge in the highlight of the tour: wine tasting. Sample a selection of fruity rosés, elegant and well-balanced whites, or full-bodied reds, allowing your taste buds to savor the diverse flavors of the region. Conclude your experience with a return journey to Aix-en-Provence, filled with memories of an exceptional wine exploration.
Book now and embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes and exquisite wines of the Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire.