Cotignac sits in the heart of Provence wine country, and some of the region's loveliest estates are just a short drive away. Here are six I recommend to every guest, from family-run domaines to grand châteaux.
Château La Calisse, Pontevès
Best for: a relaxed organic tasting on a working farm
A certified organic estate in the countryside near Pontevès, with views over the vines. The wines are made under the Coteaux Varois en Provence appellation and IGP Var. It's a lovely, unhurried stop with a tasting cellar where you can try the range.
Château de Berne, Lorgues
Best for: a full day out, with lunch, a walk and a tasting
Wine has been made here since 1750. Today the estate spans around 1,000 hectares, with 175 hectares of organic vines producing Côtes de Provence reds, rosés and whites with generous, fruity flavours. Alongside cellar visits and tastings, there are walking and bike trails, a hotel, and restaurants including the Michelin-starred Le Jardin de Berne.
Château Nestuby, Cotignac
Best for: families, and a taste of Cotignac on your doorstep
A family estate just outside the village, making wine since 1949. They produce Côtes de Provence reds, rosés and whites, plus a traditional-method sparkling wine. The vineyard is farmed using viticulture methods and holds HVE (High Environmental Value) certification. There's grape juice for children at tastings, and seasonal family activities such as vineyard treasure hunts.
Château Carpe Diem, Cotignac
Best for: organic and biodynamic wines, close to home
Just a couple of kilometres from the village, this family estate is certified organic and biodynamic. They make whites, rosés and reds from traditional Provençal grape varieties, with most of the harvest picked at night. The core range is easy and generous, perfect for sharing over a barbecue or a long lunch, while their premium cuvées are made for special meals.
Château Thuerry, Villecroze
Best for: wine lovers who enjoy something a little different
A large estate on clay and limestone soils, pairing traditional methods with very modern winemaking. Their rosé is unusual: aged in oak, with toasty notes and a spicy finish, and made to keep for a few years. The outstanding red (my favourite local red wine) is well structured and even improves with age. Free cellar visits run on selected afternoons, by reservation.
Domaine Fontainebleau en Provence, Le Val
Best for: a fun vineyard tour, with a tasting at the end
A certified organic estate whose vines grow on red pelite soils, which give the wines their complexity and distinctive character. They make Coteaux Varois en Provence wines in red.white and rosé, as well as an exclusive estate olive oil. In addition to wine tastings and cellar visits, you can explore the estate by electric buggy (by prior appointment) driving past olive groves, a windmill and a chapel.
A few tips
Check opening times before you go. Many estates change their hours between summer and winter, and some close on Sundays.
Book tours in advance. Cellar visits and guided tours are often by reservation only.
Choose a designated driver, or ask for the spittoon. The lanes between wine estates are winding.
Bring a cool bag. You'll almost certainly want to take a few bottles home.
Santé! If you're staying at La Bergerie, I'm always happy to help you plan a wine day.
