Provence [praw-VAHNSS]
It’s thought that winemaking has existed in this beautiful area of southern France since about 600 b.c. Although Provence, which sits on the Mediterranean just east of the Rhône region, has never been known for fine wine, it’s now undergoing an upgrading process. The largest appellation in this area is Côtes de Provence. Other appellations are Bandol, Bellet, cassis, Palette, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, and Les Baux de Provence AC. Red-wine grapes grown in this area include Carignan, Cinsaut, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and, increasingly, Cabernet Sauvignon. Bourboulenc, Clairette, Sauvignon Blanc, sémilion, and Ugni Blanc (Trebbiano) are some of the white-wine grapes used.
The New Wine Lovers Companion, 2nd Edition, by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Copyright © (1) 2003, 1995 by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Reprinted by arrangement with Barron's Educational Series, Inc.