Explore the Best Wineries in Provence: A Family Getaway

A reason to visit Provence wineries

This summer marked a milestone: our very first holiday with our little boy, born at the end of March. Like many new parents, we craved a slower pace — a place to recharge, reconnect, and savour life’s pleasures without rushing. Provence, with its breathtaking coastline, lavender fields, and world-class wines, offered exactly what we were looking for.

Our journey took us along the South of France, from the seaside vineyards of Cassis to the legendary estates of Bandol, and finally, to the Riviera glamour of Saint-Tropez. Allowing us to explore the best wineries of the region. It was a trip where wine, food, and landscape came together in perfect harmony.

Cassis: Clos Sainte Magdeleine and the Taste of the Sea

Few places are as picturesque as Cassis, where vineyards tumble down limestone cliffs into the blue Mediterranean. The views alone are worth the visit, but the wines tell an even richer story.

Our first stop was Clos Sainte Magdeleine, one of the best Provence and most iconic wineries in the appellation. Here, the terroir is impossible to ignore: every glass carries the salt, light, and freshness of the sea.

We tasted three cuvées:

Cassis Blanc – Classic and mineral-driven, with citrus and white fruit. A perfect aperitif wine for a summer evening with friends.
Baume Noire Blanc – Vermentino aged in amphora, bringing exotic fruit, texture, and roundness. I pictured it alongside grilled fish or Provençal ratatouille.
IGP Méditerranée Blanc – Light and easy-drinking, made for sunsets on a terrace.

Travel Tip: Clos Sainte-Magdeleine sits right near the Cassis centre. It’s a 15-minute walk from the port. We recommend booking in advance. We can do that for you here!

If you want to learn more from Cassis, this Decanter Travel Guide provides a comprehensive overview.

Bandol: Legendary Mourvèdre at Domaine Tempier

From the coast to inland vineyards in Provence

From Cassis, we drove inland to Bandol, one of the most revered names in Provence. This appellation is home to some of the region´s best wineries and is synonymous with Mourvèdre, a grape that thrives in its clay-limestone soils and Mediterranean climate.

At Domaine Tempier, history feels alive. The rosé here is unlike the light, casual styles of Provence — it is structured, gastronomic, and age-worthy, for sure one of Provence’s best wineries.

We tasted three wines:

Bandol Rosé – Round, floral, with red fruits and a touch of spice. Ideal with tapas, goat cheese, or a Provençal spread.
Bandol Rouge – Dark fruit, herbs, and robust tannins. Built for ageing, a reminder of why Bandol reds are world-renowned.
Bandol Blanc – Made from Clairette and Ugni Blanc, it´s a light, refreshing wine with mineral notes that can age, showcasing honey aromas when aged.

Food Pairing: Bandol reds pair well with rich dishes, such as Provençal-style stews, like slow-cooked beef or grilled lamb seasoned with herbs. On the other hand, their lighter wines can be great for an aperitif or with white meats and asparagus risotto.

Domaine de Terrebrune: Exceptional Terroir, where Mouvedre is King.

Following, we visited Domaine de Terrebrune, a winery where authenticity dominates. The rustic charm of the estate, the passionate guide, and the cool, excavated cellar made this stop unforgettable. The estate is one of Provence best wineries to visit. It was established in the 1960s, and since then, their philosophy of creating a respectful atmosphere and protecting the ecosystem has been imperative for their production.

The tasting was incredible and included a wide range of wines:

Terrebrune Blanc 2023 – Sublime, fresh and saline. With some exotic white flowers, citrus and delicate notes of butter at the back.
Rosé 2023 – Zesty, aromatic, refined, Structured, peppery, and food-friendly, a one-of-a-kind rosé.
Rouge 2020 – Deep aromas, dark fruits, with earthy tannins. As it ages, it can develop some truffle notes.
Rosé 2015 & Rosé 1998 – A revelation. The 1998, amber-hued and nutty, showed how Provençal rosé can evolve with grace.

Why Visit: Terrebrune’s wines are outstanding and very unique. They are gastronomic, serious, and demand food — think Moroccan couscous, duck breast, or even spicy curry.

Saint-Tropez: Riviera Elegance at Château Minuty, Provence most famous winery

Our journey ended in Saint-Tropez, where wine meets glamour. At Château Minuty, in Gassin, one of the world’s most renowned wineries, was recently purchased by the glorious LVMH group. A four-generation winery where the ambience is pure Riviera elegance.

We tasted:

Minuty Prestige – Fresh, precise, and approachable.
Château Minuty D’Or – My favourite: citrus, grapefruit, and a hint of strawberry. Elegant yet easy to drink.
Minuty 281 – Iconic, polished, and built for special occasions.

Food and Wine: Minuty wines complement the essence of summer—imagine seafood platters, beach clubs in Ramatuelle, or evenings on the terrace with friends.

Vineyards in Gassin, walking tour experience

Final Thoughts: Provence for Wine Lovers & Families

This trip through Provence was a very special occasion to reevaluate our concept of Provence-style rosé. Explore Provence best wineries and discover great, bold red wines and exceptional gastronomic rosés, fresh, mineral wines with a great sense of place. We came back home with new wines for the cellar, excited to open them with friends and wonderful new stories. And most importantly, wider knowledge and a more sustained opinion about French wines from the south and its exquisite cuisine.

FAQ: Provence Wine Travel

What wine is Cassis known for?

Cassis is famous for its Cassis Blanc, mineral-driven white wines made primarily from Marsanne, Clairette, and Ugni Blanc.

Can you age Provence rosé?

Yes — especially Bandol rosé. Estates like Domaine Tempier and Domaine de Terrebrune produce structured rosés that evolve beautifully with age.

Which Bandol winery should I visit?

Both Domaine Tempier and Domaine de Terrebrune are essential stops—Tempier for its history and prestige, and Terrebrune for its authenticity and surprising ageing potential.

What is the best time to visit Provence wineries?

Spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer great weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful vineyard scenery.