Cótes de Provence Sainte-Victoire French wine appellation guide: location, history, wines, climate & soil
Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire is a prestigious sub-zone of the Côtes de Provence appellation, at the foot of the mountain painted by Cézanne, known for elegant, structured rosés and fine reds.
More info about Cótes de Provence Sainte-Victoire
Geographic position
Southeastern France, in the Bouches-du-Rhône and Var departments, on the southern slopes of the Montagne Sainte-Victoire, east of Aix-en-Provence, around villages such as Puyloubier, Trets and Rousset.
Origin & history
The Greeks and Romans grew vines in Provence, France's oldest wine region. The Sainte-Victoire mountain became world-famous through the dozens of paintings by Paul Cézanne. In 2005 it became the first terroir allowed to add its name to the Côtes de Provence AOC, with stricter rules on yields and grapes.
Wines & grape varieties
Mainly rosé and red. Rosés blend Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, with notes of peach, citrus and spice; reds rely on Syrah and Grenache with Mourvèdre and Cabernet Sauvignon, showing black fruit, garrigue and liquorice.
Climate & soil
Hot, dry Mediterranean climate, sheltered from sea air by the mountain, with the Mistral and cool nights. Limestone, red clay and sandstone soils.
Wine region: Provence
Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Grenache Noir, Mourvèdre, Syrah