Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Production

The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region is mountainous, partially borders north-western Italy, and is close to the Mediterranean coast. The Durance river runs through the region. Grapes are grown in scattered vineyards across the slopes of the valley by the river. The Alps protect the vineyards from harsh weather, while warm mountain winds and cool Mediterranean Sea breezes pass through.

The grapes grow on high altitudes with diurnal temperature shifts. During the day, temperatures get quite warm with the sun exposure. However, at night the temperature drops significantly. The grapes develop sugars during hot days and retain freshness during cool nights. The result is an aromatic and light wine.

Grape Varieties & Classification

Nearly half of the production of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence wines are rosé Provencal blends of Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault. Vermentino is also used in some rosé blends in the region. Approximately one quarter of the production of wines in the region are red blends of Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault.

Grenache and the occasional Pinot Noir are produced and sold as single varietal red wines. Vermentino / Rolle and Viognier are produced and sold as single varietal white wines. Occasionally, you find Grenache-Syrah blends as well.

Viognier is also used for blending with Syrah grapes similar to what you’d see in Northern Rhône. It can help round out the wine and offer floral characteristics. Winemakers are increasingly starting to grow and produce Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot wines due to their familiarity and popularity among consumers.

Buy Alpes-de-Haute-Provence Wine from Hourlier Wines

We at Pierre Hourlier Wines are proud to showcase the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence wines of Chateau de Rousset. Our selection of their spectacular still red, rosé, and white wines is below.

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence Chateau de Rousset Syrah Viognier

This lovely, earthy Chateau de Rousset wine is a blend of 80% Syrah grapes and
20% Viognier. The Viognier adds lovely floral notes to the wine. This wine pairs
beautifully with lamb and pork.

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence Chateau de Rousset Les Bambines Rosé

A blend of Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Vermentino, this delightful, fresh rosé has
notes of lychee, rose, melon, and cassis on the nose. It pairs well with salads and
light dishes. It can be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif. The rosé is sold in magnums as well.

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence Chateau de Rousset Le Bambin Viognier

Made from two of Chateau de Rousset’s oldest plots, this wine is 100% Viognier. It’s stirred on the lees and features delicate floral aromas on the nose. It pairs beautifully with salads and light dishes. It’s also great on its own as an aperitif.

FAQ

Where is Alpes-de-Haute-Provence?

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is in south-eastern France within Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. The region is close to the Mediterranean coast. A small section of the region
borders north-western Italy.

What makes Alpes-de-Haute-Provence wine unique?

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence wine is unique because of the climate and conditions in which grapes are grown. The Durance river runs through the region and the grapes are grown on the slopes of the valley. Diurnal temperature shifts cause grapes to develop sugars and ripen during hot summer days. When the temperature cools at night, freshness is retained. The result is an aromatic, light, and fresh wine.

Which food groups pair well with Alpes-de-Haute-Provence wine?

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence red wines are bold and earthy. They pair beautifully with lamb and pork dishes. The rosé and white wines are fruity, fresh, and floral. They pair well with salads and light dishes. They are also excellent summer sipping wines to be enjoyed as aperitifs.

What style of wine is Alpes-de-Haute-Provence?

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence wines are light and aromatic. The grapes grow on slopes with a large diurnal range of temperatures. Hot daytime temperatures allow the grapes to ripen and develop sugars. At night, the altitude causes the temperature to drop significantly. During this time, the grapes retain acidity which results in a fresh, light, and aromatic wine.