Yachts bobbing on blue surf, wafts of lavender on a sun-warmed breeze, lazy games of pétanque in a village square – Provence is a mood as much as it is a wine region. The wider area stretches from Cannes to the Alpilles mountains near Arles, with red, white and sparkling wines all in the mix. But if, to you, Provence means rosé, make for the ultra-pale heartland in Côtes de Provence, which radiates inland from the coast around chic Saint-Tropez. Maison Mirabeau’s 20-hectare estate is studded with umbrella pines and chestnut groves, while Château d’Esclans hosts private tastings featuring its popular Whispering Angel blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle.
Where to stay: For a classic Provence holiday, Château de Berne is a hidden gem in the area’s rolling hills, surrounded by 515 hectares of umbrella pines, ancient oaks, olive groves and vineyards. And for something completely different, there’s Ultimate Provence, which offers a unique, modern experience of Provencal living in sharp contrast to many traditional properties in the region.
Château-Châlon vineyard, Jura, Franche-ComtéGetty Images
Jura
Best for: stunning scenery
Kissing the Swiss border and framed by a sub-alpine landscape of forested slopes and chocolate-box mountain villages, the smallest wine region in France dances to its own beat. Its unusual vin jaune (yellow wine), made in an oxidative style from obscure local varietal Savagnin, is fashionable among wine geeks for its nutty, briny character – a dreamy match for local fare such as Comté cheese. Vineyards are broken up by serene lakes, grazing fields of cows and dense forests dotted with wood-clad cabins. Savour it all in between tastings at the likes of Domaine Rolet and Domaine de la Pinte.
Where to stay: Casa Antolià, an ivy-covered winemaker’s home built in 1765, now turned into a stylish gîte for wine-loving travellers.