The city of Aix-en-Provence is a real gem. The beauty of its architecture and surroundings is so great that it inspired the painter Cézanne. Ideally located in the department of Bouches-du-Rhône, it offers many distractions to all those who decide to go there.
Brief history of Aix-en-Provence
The area hosting the city of Aix-en-Provence is rich in history. In the early days, it was occupied by the Salluvians before the Romans arrived and drove them out. Later, a camp was set up near the hot springs in the area. It soon became a town that would become known as Aix-en-Provence.
This town is considered a city of art for many reasons. Its monuments, the Town Hall, the Vendôme Pavilion and the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral are true architectural works of art. Moreover, Aix-en-Provence and its surroundings have inspired many artists. To mention only Cézanne and Picasso.
As you walk through the city, you can admire the fountain of the Rotunda. With a diameter of 32 metres and a height of 12 metres, this construction is a must. You will recognize it by its cast iron basin decorated with swans, dolphins and lions.
And of course, don't miss out the cultural sites of Aix-en-Provence such as the Granet Museum and its 12,000 collection pieces.
Les Coteaux-d'Aix-en-Provence, the wine-growing area around Aix-en-Provence
The city of Aix-en-Provence is surrounded by the Coteaux-d'Aix-en-Provence AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée). It extends over 27 communes in the Bouches-du-Rhône and 2 in the Var.
This wine-growing area benefits from a Mediterranean climate characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, sunny winters. Thanks to the hills in the north, it does not suffer from the effects of the Mistral wind. Throughout the appellation, different microclimates are also noted. Thus, depending on the area, the vineyards can enjoy humid, mild, cool or windy weather.
During your visits of wine cellars near Aix-en-Provence, the producers will be able to show you the grape varieties necessary for the production of their different wines. The red and rosé wines are mainly made from Grenache.
This grape variety can be blended with mourvèdre, syrah, carignan, cabernet-sauvignon, counoise or cinsault. White wines are produced with bourboulenc, clairette, grenache and vermentino. Sometimes, ugni can be mixed with them.
Addresses for a wine tasting of wines produced near Aix-en-Provence
Would you like to taste wines produced in the Aix-en-Provence area while visiting farms? Meet us at Château Henri Bonnaud in Le Tholonet. This family-run business is distinguished by its enthusiasm for organic farming.
It produces, among others, Côte-de-Provence and Palette appellations. Treat yourself by discovering its cellar and savouring the various wines offered.
In Puyloubier, you will find Château Gassier. Nestled in the heart of the AOC Côtes-de-Provence, this estate transforms Grenache, Vermentino and Syrah into fine rosés that are highly appreciated in gastronomy. In addition to visiting this winery in the vicinity of Aix-en-Provence, discover the château and its surroundings. You will also be able to learn about the techniques used to find the right food and wine pairing with the estate's rosés.