DOMAINE DE LA NAVICELLE: BETWEEN SKY, LAND AND SEA

Domaine de la Navicelle : Between Sky, Earth, and Sea

In the heart of the charming village of Le Pradet, on the coast east of Toulon, lies the 20-hectare vineyard of Domaine de la Navicelle. This AOC Côtes de Provence appellation is situated just north of the Colle Noire massif, benefiting from a unique climate. In this preserved natural setting, the first words that come to mind are tranquility and serenity. It’s an ideal atmosphere and climate for crafting elegant Provence wines. The wines are produced using organic farming methods, reflecting the deep respect for this timeless space and the natural potential of this Provençal terroir. The estate produces white and red wines, and is particularly renowned for its Provençal rosés.

A Natural Haven Open to Oenotourism

The intimacy of this estate can be explored not only through its wines but also through its lodgings. One of the estate’s major projects is to open its guesthouses to allow visitors to experience the climate that prevails in their vineyards. And what a climate it is! With views of the sea, proximity to the massif, and rich, untamed biodiversity, the character of their wines becomes clearer. It’s a place of conviviality, serenaded by cicadas and shaded by orange trees. We highly recommend planning a getaway to discover their viticulture methods, which are conducted with the utmost respect for the rich ecosystem of fauna and flora. The estate has been Demeter certified since 2018.

The Microclimate of Colle Noire: Fresh and Generous Wines

Their wines require no artifices, also because their terroir is eager to express itself. The northern orientation and protection provided by the Colle Noire massif offer a unique climate in Provence, shielded from excessive heat. The vines are cultivated on terraced slopes with red clay soils and a rocky subsoil of limestone, sandstone, and schist. The result? They thrive naturally without the need for irrigation. Mediterranean grape varieties are utilized to produce generous, complex wines with beautiful minerality and freshness. The famous Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Tibouren, and Cinsault are used for red and rosé wines, while Rolle and Clairette are used for white wines. We particularly recommend the exceptional Zephyr 2019 cuvée that we tasted for you. Predominantly made from Tibouren, it reveals an expressive nose of citrus and intense red fruits. It’s a deep, elegant, and crisp gastronomic wine with a lovely balance. It pairs beautifully with a veal dish with Provençal herbs or a noble fish.