Provence

The picturesque southern French region of Provence on the Côte d’Azur is famous for its rosé wines, sunshine and glamour.

Bordered by the Mediterranean, it is home to towns and cities such as Bandol, Cassis and Marseille.

Decanter travel guide: Cassis & Bandol

Decanter travel guide: Provence

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Grapes

The primary grapes used for the production of rosé and red wines are Mourvèdre, Syrah, Grenache, Cinsault, Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Ugni Blanc, Rolle, Semillon and Clairette are used for white wines.

The region is known predominantly for its rosé, which accounts for nearly 75% of wine production.

Bandol produces the region’s most highly-regarded reds, while the only area known for its white wines is Cassis.

Quick links Wine reviews | Top restaurants chosen by the winemakers

Provence map

There are three main appellations in the region:
• Côte de Provence
• Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence
• Coteaux Varois en Provence

The climate here is hot, sunny and dry with little rain, and the brisk mistral wind helps to ripen the grapes quickly.

There are different soil types throughout the region: In the northwest there are rocky hogbacks sculpted by erosion. In the east there is crystalline rock near the sea.