Varieties
Nestled amidst a landscape dotted with an ancient stone farmhouse and a collection of ancient wells with galleries hailing from the Gallo-Roman era, this expansive 14-hectare property boasts 12 hectares of cultivated land.
As you explore our verdant fields, you'll find six hectares of mature vines, yielding both elegant white wines, such as Vermentino (or Rolle), and robust reds, including Cinsault, Syrah, Grenache Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon, originating from plantings in 1969, 1970, and 1980.
In 2019, the vineyard expanded its horizons, introducing a new selection of grape varieties. Among them, AOP Côtes de Provence-permitted varieties, including Vermentino (or Rolle), Sémillon, Cinsault, Carignan, Tibouren, Mourvèdre, and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as lesser-known regional varieties such as Airen, Biancu Gentile, Colombard, Cabernet Franc, Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris, Muscat of Alexandria, Sciaccarello, Nielluccio, Petit Verdot, and Carmenere.
Of the property's 14 hectares, nine qualify for the prestigious AOP (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) "Côtes de Provence" classification. Furthermore, two hectares have earned the respected DGC (Dénomination Géographique Complémentaire) "Côtes de Provence - Notre Dames des Anges" distinction. The symbol of this esteemed designation is La Chapelle Notre Dame, which stands proudly at the highest point of the Maures mountain range, reaching an elevation of 767 meters.
Our main grape varieties:
Vermentino is a white grape variety native to the Mediterranean, with its origins in Italy and Corsica. In the Provence region of France, it is also known as Rolle and is gaining popularity for its refreshing and aromatic white wines. The grape thrives in the coastal areas of Provence, where the maritime influence and sun-drenched slopes provide ideal growing conditions.
Historically, Vermentino has been used as a blending grape in various white wine blends, but it is increasingly being produced as a single-varietal wine in the region. The typical flavour profile of Vermentino includes bright citrus notes of lemon and grapefruit, as well as green apple, pear, and white peach. Aromatically, it exhibits floral and herbal nuances, such as white blossoms, fennel, and a hint of almond. Vermentino wines from Provence are characterized by their crisp acidity and refreshing minerality, making them perfect for pairing with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
Cinsault is a versatile red grape variety that originated in the southern region of France. It has since spread across the Mediterranean and is now widely cultivated in the Provence region.
Historically, Cinsault has been used as a blending grape due to its high yield and ability to bring balance to more robust varieties. It contributes freshness and fruity aromas to the blend, with typical flavour profiles of red fruit, such as cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, as well as floral notes of rose and violet. The grape is also known for producing elegant and easy-drinking rosé wines that are popular in the Provence region.
Grenache is a red grape variety that is widely grown in the southern regions of France, particularly in the Rhône Valley and Provence. It is believed to have originated in Spain and was introduced to France during the medieval period. Grenache is heat and drought-resistant, which makes it well-suited for the warm Mediterranean climate of Provence.
The grape is often blended with other varieties, such as Syrah and Mourvèdre, to create rich and full-bodied wines. Grenache typically exhibits flavours of red fruit, like raspberry and strawberry, as well as hints of white pepper, dried herbs, and liquorice. In the Provence region, it is also used to produce refreshing rosé wines that are perfect for warm summer days.
Syrah, also known as Shiraz, is a dark-skinned red grape variety that originally hails from the Rhône Valley in France. Its origins can be traced back to the Roman times, and it has since become one of the most cultivated grape varieties in the world. In the Provence region, Syrah is commonly blended with other local grape varieties, like Grenache and Mourvèdre, to create complex and flavourful wines.
The typical flavour profile of Syrah includes dark fruits such as blackberry, plum, and blackcurrant, as well as peppery, spicy, and savoury notes. The grape's robust character and high tannin content make it suitable for aging, which can develop more complex flavours and aromas over time.
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the world's most renowned and widely planted red grape varieties, with its origins in Bordeaux, France. Known for its thick skin and resistance to disease, it has found success in various regions, including the Provence area. Cabernet Sauvignon is often blended with other grape varieties, such as Merlot or Cabernet Franc, to create well-structured and complex wines.
This grape is known for its deep, rich flavours and aromas of dark fruits like blackcurrant and black cherry, accompanied by herbaceous and earthy undertones. The firm tannins and high acidity of Cabernet Sauvignon allow it to age gracefully, developing more complex nuances over time.