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Côtes de Provence & IGP Var Wines:
A Story of Terroir and Tradition
At Les Caves du Commandeur, winemaking is a tradition passed down through generations. Specializing in red, white, and rosé wines, we craft exceptional cuvées from two Protected Designations of Origin (AOP) — Côtes de Provence and Coteaux Varois en Provence — as well as the Protected Geographical Indication (IGP) Var.
Each designation reflects a unique story of terroir, climate, and tradition, giving every wine its own identity and distinctive character.
AOP Côtes de Provence:
Synonymous with Elegance
Côtes de Provence is one of the most renowned appellations in France. Stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the inland hills, it offers ideal conditions for vine growing — generous sunshine, diverse soils, and a temperate climate.
Wines from this AOP — red, white, or rosé — are celebrated for their refinement and aromatic complexity. A wide range of grape varieties such as Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Rolle allow producers to craft balanced, expressive, and elegant wines.
Reds: dark fruit, spice, and structure
Rosés: red fruits and citrus, fresh and vibrant
Whites: floral, mineral, and lively
A Unique Terroir
The soils of the AOP include limestone, sandstone, clay, and sandy zones, which provide good drainage and deep rooting, essential for vine health and grape quality.
The Mediterranean climate moderates temperature extremes, ensuring steady grape ripening and ideal aromatic expression.
AOP Coteaux Varois en Provence:
Where Tradition Meets Modernity
Nestled in the heart of the Var, this AOP benefits from diverse soils (clay-limestone, sandy) and a Mediterranean climate, offering wines of remarkable aromatic intensity and structure.
Reds (Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre): powerful, spicy, with black fruit and licorice notes
Rosés: fresh and fruity, with hints of grapefruit and white flowers
Whites (Rolle, Sémillon): floral, mineral, and delicately fruity
Climate and Terroir of the Coteaux Varois
The varied geology provides balance and complexity, while the region’s hilly topography offers optimal sun exposure. The nearby mountains create a microclimate that ensures cool nights — ideal for preserving the freshness of white grape varieties and producing well-balanced wines.
IGP Var: A Protected Geographical Indication with Authentic Character
Less restrictive than AOP regulations, the IGP Var designation offers producers greater creative freedom in choosing grape varieties and winemaking techniques — while still meeting strict quality and authenticity standards.
Reds: soft, supple, with ripe red fruit notes
Rosés: expressive, fruity, with hints of melon and peach
Whites (Rolle, Chardonnay): citrus-driven, floral, and refreshingly crisp
Creative Freedom, Quality First
This designation empowers winemakers to explore the full potential of the Var’s terroirs, experimenting with blends while remaining true to the region’s identity. Respect for the land, authenticity, and flavor expression lie at the heart of the IGP Var wines — offering consumers a wide and vibrant range to discover.