Provence

This appellation is located in the extreme south of the wine-growing region of Provence in France, on the Mediterranean coast. The region is named after the port town of Bandol, from which wines used to shipped to many countries, bearing the “B” on the barrels. Viticulture here pre-dates the arrival of the Romans in 125 BC. The vineyard area totals 1.500 hectares, spread over eight communes. The red wines, specifically, are among the best in Provence. They are a blend of at least two of the following varieties: Mourvèdre (minimum of 50%), Grenache and Cinsaut, as well as as maximum of 15% in total or 10% each of 10% Syrah and Carignan. Rosé is made from the same varieties, except that in this case there are no minimum requirements. The white wine is made from a minimum of 60% Bourboulenc, Clairette and Ugni Blanc, as well as a maximum of 40% Sauvignon Blanc. Well-known producers include Domaine Barthes, Château des Baumelles, La Bastide Blanche, Domaine Castell-Reynoard, Domaine de Frégate, Domaine de l´Hermitage, Domaine Lafran-Veyrolles, Domaine de la Laidière, Château de Pibarnon, Château de Salettes, Château la Rouvière, Domaine Sorin, Domaine la Suffrene, Domaine Tempier and Domaine Vannières.