Provence Is Famous for Rosé—but Don’t Miss Out on Its Reds
For many U.S. wine lovers, Provence is synonymous with rosé. The pale pink wines common to the region have become a summer obsession—and with good reason. In Provence, over 90% of the vines are dedicated to rosé production, leaving just a small amount to red and white wines.
However, the red wines of Provence are worth seeking out. Bandol is already known for producing serious rosés on the darker end of the spectrum, so it should be no surprise that the region also produces world-class red wines—often lush blends dominated by the Mourvèdre grape, which ripens well in the southern corner of region. Current regulations require all reds to spend 18 months in cask.
Though only 6% of vines in the appellation are devoted to red, Coteaux d’Aix en Provence also produces a number of exceptional red wines, in addition to the dry rosé it’s known for. These reds are known for being robust and ageworthy, though there has been a recent trend towards fresh and fruity.
To explore the surprising reds of Provence, try these top-rated bottles from our Tasting Department.
Wine Enthusiast recommends:
Domaines Ott 2020 Château Romassan Red (Bandol)
The nose of this wine is lively with aromas of dark cherry, blueberry, anise and vanilla. The palate is dark and complex with blue fruit flavors and other savory characteristics like cured meat and vanilla. Everything about the wine is well-balanced and while it is approachable now it will get better with some cellaring. Drink now–2030. Cellar Selection. 93 points — Cody Wexler
$79
Bottle Barn
Domaine le Galantin 2020 Red (Bandol)
Subtle aromas that are earthy and rich pool in the glass of this complex nose full of dark fruits. This wine still feels very young, it is meaty and rich with savory elements of chocolate and mint. It has great salinity powerful tannins and a superlong finish. Drink now–2035. Cellar Selection. 92 points — Roger Voss
$73
Wine Merchants
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Château Calissanne 2022 Rocher Rouge Mourvèdre (Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence)
This wine smells like fall, baked apples, allspice and cedar mix with richer aromas like plum and vanilla. The flavor on the palate is full bold red fruits and more savory notes like black olives and cured meats. The wine has great acidity, well-integrated tannins and a subtle vanilla note that lingers through the long finish. 92 points — R.V.
Inquire with the winery
Château la Coste 2018 Grand Vin Rouge Red (Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence)
With maturity, this organic wine has developed a vanilla texture that’s smooth and generous. It is ripe, the black fruits now softened into spiciness and soft tannins. Drink now. 92 points — R.V.
$442
Grand Wine Cellar
Château Vannières 2020 Red (Bandol)
This impressive wine is smooth and ripe. With its velvet tannins and concentration from older vines, the wine is developed although still has further potential. Drink this powerful the wine from 2025. 93 points — R.V.
Inquire with the winery
Château Saint-Esprit 2021 Quintessence Red (Côtes de Provence)
Inquire with the winery
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Les Vignobles Gueissard 2019 Red (Bandol)
$37
Yiannis Wine
Bastide de la Ciselette 2020 Red (Bandol)
Spicy and with black fruits and a dense texture, the wine is full bodied. The wood aging shows still but will integrate as it matures further. A fine wine, it will be ready from 2025. 91 points — R.V.
$45
Astor Wines
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