Domaine La Suffrène

Domaine La Suffrène has its roots in several generations who have cultivated and passed down a treasure shaped by nature over thousands of years. In 1996, Cédric Gravier took over the family estate, alongside his grandfather, who knows every vine. Two generations working toward the same goal, drawing inspiration from one another to continually highlight the inexhaustible qualities of this little geological gem. Since the 2020 vintage, the estate’s wines have been certified organic (Ecocert). 

Domaine La Suffrène spans 50 hectares within the Bandol AOC, comprising a number of plots with varied geological characteristics. The bulk of production is located between the two rudist massifs (fossil-bearing limestone) of Le Castellet and La Cadière, and the hillsides of Sainte-Anne du Castellet. The Bandol region is renowned for its exceptional climate, featuring 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, the invigorating influence of the sea air, and rainfall that rarely exceeds 650 mm, concentrated in the fall and winter.

The vineyards of Domaine La Suffrène, composed primarily of old vines, are situated on predominantly clay-limestone soil. The intense reflection of the sun’s rays on the hillsides, the maritime influence that protects against winter frosts, and the undulating landscape—all these elements combine to create ideal conditions for bottling the sun. It is here that Bandol’s flagship grape variety, Mourvèdre, expresses the full richness of its character. It brings structure and finesse to the rosé, and a range of aromas featuring spices and licorice to the reds. To balance this expression, it is blended with the traditional grape varieties of Provence: Cinsault, Grenache, and Carignan.