Bandol

Bandol is the largest and best-known appellation in Provence. From the Sainte-Baume massif to the shores of the Mediterranean, vineyards are a familiar sight throughout the region. Facing due south, the terroir overlooks the sea and enjoys exceptional sunshine—nearly 3,000 hours per year. A decree dated November 11, 1941, established the “Vin de Bandol” or “Bandol” appellation contrôlée for certain wines harvested in the municipalities of Bandol, Le Beausset, La Cadière-d’Azur, Le Castellet, Evenos, Ollioules, Sanary-sur-Mer, Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer in the Var department.

Set in a natural amphitheater, the Bandol vineyards are terraced (restanques) across approximately 1,500 hectares. These landscapes are the result of the perseverance of generations of winemakers: over the centuries, they had to carve out the hillsides to be able to cultivate the vines there. Thanks to this hard work, we can now enjoy wines of the highest quality from such renowned estates as Château de Pibarnon, the Ott, La Suffrène, and Tempier estates, Château Vannières, Château Pradeaux, Domaine la Bastide Blanche, and Domaine de la Bégude.

In Bandol, the unique geology and microclimate create an ecological niche where the wine’s strong personality flourishes. Through their passion for the region, the winemakers have made Bandol the preferred terroir for Mourvèdre. Their mastery of this distinctive grape variety is now internationally recognized. The appellation’s regulations thus require a minimum of 50% Mourvèdre and 18 months of barrel aging before the release of red wines, which make up the majority of the appellation’s production. Syrah and Grenache round out the blends of Bandol wines.