port
Saint Raphael, France
activityLevel
Moderate Activity
excursionType
All
wheelchairAccessible
No
startingAtPrice
$170
minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
duration
4¾ Hours
mealsIncluded
Meals included
Discoverthe Côtes de Provence appellation during this leisurely tour based on the history of the popular wines produced in Southern France. Leaving behind the port of St Raphäel, you will enjoy a 45-minute drive to the area known as Les Arcs. Start with the utterly charming Chateau St Martin, whosedomain has a very long history. Hear some interesting facts while strollingthroughthe property. Interestingly, since it was first built, the Chateau has always been owned by women. You will be treated to a tasting of three different wines produced by the domain. Continue to your next venue, Chateau Ste Roseline. Visit the chapel and the cloister for a brief history of the architectural surroundings as well as a summary of Sainte Roseline’s life, whose body is kept in the chapel. Admire a monumental mosaic by Marc Chagall, among other artworks.In the winery, learn about the extensive development process of the various wines (white, rosé, red) from vine to bottle. This part of the tour will cover specific topics, such as the manufacturing of barrels and their use in wine aging, as well as the role of the gravity principle. Lastly, you will be led to the wine tasting room to taste three Cru Classé wines (white, rosé, red) while snacking on typical bread from Provence. At both venues you will have the chance to purchase wines and also some other regional specialties. Ideal for tour for those passionate about wine or merely supportive of the industry through incidental consumption, this vie en rose outing is an insight into the French world of Provence wines, where the rosé is the most characteristic wine of the region.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. On 8/5/2022, the visit to Chateau Ste Roseline winery will be replaced by La Maison des Vins -- the House of Wines -- in Les Arcs. The Maison is located on the ground floor of a new, traditionally styled building with a stucco exterior, wide stone terrace and lovely reflecting pool and fountain. The large tasting room features an attractive wall of wines, with each bottle lit from behind to emphasize the different colors.