With the first frosts, the litany of calendar festivals begins in the land of Pagnol and Giono. Santon fairs and Christmas markets continue until the Big Supper on December 24, with its three tablecloths (reference to the Holy Trinity) and thirteen desserts (The Last Supper). Despite the promises of its title, this lean meal takes place without libation… Unlike the next day’s feasts, where meats and nectars from Provence abound. The opportunity to (re)discover the region’s reds (5% of production), which suffer severely from the omnipresence of rosés on the shelves and in the windows of wine merchants. So many wines for aging, as powerful as they are elegant, which brilliantly restore the gifts that the Provençal terroirs have transmitted to the vines. Our favorites.
- Daisies in Provence 2021
Enzo and Olivier Fayard reveal all the richness of the terroirs of La Londe-des-Maures in this bottle. €65
- Domaine de Trévallon 2021
An icon of the region with tremendous aging potential. Powerful and complex, marked by red fruits. €75
- Château des Sarrins Red Secret 2019
Discreet estate with impeccable production. Bouquet of morello cherry and candied damson. €25.50
- Château de Pibarnon 2020
A balanced model bandol, at once fresh, ample and silky. Subtle finish of vintage licorice. €42.
- The Chapel of Sainte-Roseline 2015
The selection of plots of this very beautiful estate in Val d’Argens releases a power contained by elegance. €43.40
Surrounded by dry stone walls, the plot produces succulent wines. Aromas of violet, blackcurrant and spices. €59.50
- Domaine de Terrebrune 2016
The brown clay gives this bandol star its sanguine character. Mineral and iodized notes. €45.
- Pierredon Abbey Vespro 2020
Syrah gives this Alpilles nectar a silky texture and peppery energy. Notes of olive and garrigue. €36