Var is blessed with a temperate climate and plenty of sunshine even in the winter: Its vineyards await you under a bright blue sky, to be discovered at any time of year. There is a great deal more to oenological tourism than just wine-tasting. There’s a whole new world to discover, as you talk to winegrowers, learn about their craft, and find out how the land itself forges the character of wine. You’ll be charmed by Var’s wine estates, with their treasures of history and architecture. Opt for bed and breakfast on the estate, attend any number of events, join wine tours, winetasting workshops, or vineyard activities, and enjoy eating out. There are so many ways to discover (and taste) the best wines on your next holiday!
At least 3 ‘Protected Designation of Origin’ (PDO) coexist in the Var, as well as an Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) – ‘Wine from the Var region’.
Bandol, Côtes de Provence and Côteaux Varois are the appellations from this marvellous region, whose first grape varieties were imported 2600 years ago. Although most famous for rosé wine, their reds and whites have also built a good reputation. The reds from the Bandol vineyards are tannic and strong, thanks to Mourvèdre – an iconic grape variety. Rosé forms the majority of production, as the Var is the biggest global producer! Held in poor regard for a long time, the production of rosé wine is now highly technical, winning over our taste buds and reputable restaurant owners.
No matter the appellation, wines from the Var region are produced with passion by the winegrowers, who have often inherited family secrets. From the modest vineyards to huge, renowned estates, (not to mention the cooperative wine cellars!), they all deserve a visit and a taste. Discover flavours, a history, men and women, sun-soaked vineyards, and often not far from former Provençal farmhouses.
Each of the three PDO appellations has a ‘Maison des Vins’.
The Côtes de Provence Maison des Vins is in Arcs-sur-Argens. It has reception area in a modern building, which contains a ‘wine-library’ of 750 bottles of wine! The wine-tasting cellar is open daily to the public, to taste wines from the appellation.
The Bandol Maison des Vins is in Castellet. The ‘wine-library’, now open to the public, is opposite the Casino in Bandol, by the sea. It’s a new building entirely dedicated to wine-tasting. There is also a well-designed sales area selling outstanding wines from a range of vintages.
The Coteaux Varois Maison des Vins in Provence is in the Royal Celle Abbey. As a result, the appellation benefits from the prestige brought by this exceptional Provençal location to promote its values: authenticity, quality and tradition. As well as being a space to try these wines for the first time, the Maison des Vins has a model, conservatory vineyard in the cloisters of the Abbey and in its park
Choose from over 300 vineyards, as you design your own route through the Var, or share those made by others on the site. You can also design your route according to your preferences: Pretty Things, Culinary Delights, Art and Culture, Expert, Couple’s Escape or even, ‘With the family’.
At each estate, you can learn more about its history, production process, vintages, grape varieties, and characteristics and equipment at each estate, as well as a large number of photos.
For further information on the wines and vineyards of the Var, visit these specialist websites:
Cooperative wine cellars in the Var
