Provence

Provence, known for its delicious roses and inexpensive reds, is also the home of Bandol-the appellation's undisputed great red wine. Bandol lies between Marseilles and Toulon on the hillside of a natural amphitheater facing the Mediterranean sea. Its terroir is characterized by arid and well-drained limestone soils, the dryness of the soil being fortunately balanced by the humidity of the air coming from the sea and by occasional rainfalls. By law the red wines must contain at least 50% Mourvèdre (although many quality-oriented producers use more than this).

Subregions