My France Wine Tour: Discoveries in Provence

I've been dreaming of a wine tour of France for years, and last fall, this dream finally became a reality. My route took me to sun-drenched Provence – a region not only enchanting with its famous lavender fields, but also known for its first-class wines. In this report, I share my personal experiences and real insider tips to make your own wine vacation in France unforgettable.

The decision to go on a wine tour to Provence was easy for me, as the region combines culinary delights, culture, and scenic diversity. I chose early September, when temperatures are pleasantly warm and the grape harvest is often in full swing. Arriving by plane or car? Ultimately, I opted for a rental car to be flexible. I found my accommodation through casapilot and moved into a cozy holiday home surrounded by vineyards and olive trees. As soon as I checked in, I sensed the Mediterranean serenity, which quickly transferred to me.

A truly outstanding experience for me was Château La Coste near Aix-en-Provence. This winery combines viticulture with art installations and modern architecture. During the tasting, I strolled through the vineyards, past sculptures by internationally renowned artists. I learned a lot about the Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault grape varieties, which are responsible for the typical rosé from Provence.

In search of something less well-known, I finally discovered Domaine de Fontenille in the Luberon. Nestled amidst olive groves, this picturesque winery also operates a small boutique hotel and an excellent restaurant. The winemakers were extremely welcoming and took plenty of time to explain their wines and the special features of the terroir. The light, fruity rosé was an absolute insider tip for me, perfect for balmy summer evenings.

Insider tip: Feel free to ask the winemakers about current wine festivals or events nearby. They often spontaneously organize picnics in the vineyard, jazz evenings, or truffle weekends that aren't always readily available online.

Of course, the focus of a wine tour in France is on the fine wines, but Provençal cuisine is also a true culinary adventure. My absolute culinary highlight was a dinner at the Bastide de Moustiers near the Gorges du Verdon. Here, the chef conjures up dishes using fresh, regional ingredients that perfectly complement the local wines.

For a more down-to-earth experience, I highly recommend visiting the markets in smaller towns like Lourmarin or Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. From freshly baked baguettes to handmade goat cheese and all kinds of olives, you'll find everything you need for a spontaneous picnic. Combine the local delicacies with a bottle of local wine for an unforgettable lunch in the great outdoors.

Insider tip: Many villages offer food pairing workshops where experienced sommeliers and chefs demonstrate which dishes go well with which wines. Look for announcements in tourist information offices or ask directly in the wine shops.

Provence has a lot to offer beyond the vineyards, too. One of my favorite destinations was the village of Roussillon, known for its vibrant red ochre cliffs. The Ochre Trail (Sentier des Ocres) leads through spectacular rock formations, whose colors range from yellow to orange to dark red. Combined with the intense blue of the sky and the green pine trees, it creates a unique spectacle of color.

If you love the sea, you should take a detour to the Côte Bleue or the Calanques near Cassis. The dramatic rocky bays are perfect for hiking, swimming, and—of course—a glass of wine in the evening. This contrast between the rural tranquility of the hinterland and the sophisticated coastal resorts is not to be missed.

Wine festivals and local markets take place in Provence almost year-round. Late summer and autumn (August to October) are a particularly great time for fans of a wine tour in Provence:

• Fête de la Vigne et du Vin: Opening festival of the wine season, often with music, tastings, and food stalls.
• Rosé Festival: Some municipalities host special rosé festivals to celebrate the region's star wine.
• Truffle Markets (October - February): Not a typical wine festival, but a highlight for gourmets. Truffles and wine are an unbeatable duo.

Insider Tip: If you have time, visit the small village festivals organized exclusively by locals. There you can often meet winemakers in person, watch them at work, and sample authentic traditional dishes.

Looking back, I was particularly impressed by the combination of first-class wines, Mediterranean cuisine, and the relaxed atmosphere. The people of Provence are welcoming, happy to share their knowledge, and make you feel like part of a small community.

If you're planning a wine tour in France, take time to explore off the beaten track. Venture out to explore a little-known winery or a hidden mountain village. Be sure to plan a few days on the coast to soak up that Mediterranean feeling. This will give you a complete impression of what makes Provence so unique.

Feeling inspired? Browse the Casapilot-Provence-Site and discover hand-picked vacation homes that are perfect for an enjoyable wine holiday. Enjoy the savoir-vivre, the breathtaking landscapes, and, of course, the wonderful wines – you'll never forget your wine tour in France!