BANDOL -
BETWEEN LAND AND SEA
Bandol’s vineyards are located in a natural amphitheatre, on terraces covering a total area of around 1600 hectares. The local wines, born of passion and respect for the appellation and the terroir of the place, made up of poor and arid soils of limestone and marne (a firm mixture of clay and limestone), reveal the character of each individual winemaker.
The vineyards overlooking the sea to the south enjoy almost 3000 hours of sunshine a year. At its feet, the Mediterranean Sea protects it from temperature differences, while on the heights, hills with pine and oak forests block the cool Mistral coming from the north.
Only after meeting those who create this wealth every day can you fully appreciate Bandol. Being a Bandol requires something special. Many years have passed from the planting of the vines to tasting the first bottle.
As early as June, a so-called green harvest is carried out (the excess clusters are ruthlessly cut off) so that only the best grapes remain, which are always hand-picked after ripening to avoid damaging them.
The red wine must then be aged for a minimum of 18 months in barrels to be approved as Bandol AOC.