The Domaine Icard Vautes of Méditerranée

Discovering the wine region of Méditerranée

Méditérranée is a PGI title that covers wines produced in a large area of the South-eastern coast of France, roughly corresponding to the wine region of Provence but also including Part of the Rhône Valley. The PGI shares its territory with multiple AOC appellations as varied as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Bandol and Côtes de Provence. The PGI Méditérranée catchment area extends over 10 departments (including the two on the island of Corsica), as well as smaller parts of the Isère, Loire and Rhône departments. Viticulture is essential to the culture and economy of this part of France.

The Terroir is varied, but is largely characterized by the southern edge of the Alps and the Warm, DryMediterraneanClimate. Most of the vineyards are in the hills and valleys of the Alpine foothills, as the higher altitude provides an excellent ripening situation with abundant sunshine and cool nights. The Mistral wind from the North and sea breezes from the south often collide in the spring and autumn, creating periods of heavy rainfall that ensure the vines are well hydrated throughout the growing season. The PGI Méditérranée is widely used, as it provides an alternative geographical indicator without the strict winemaking and grape selection requirements imposed by the region's AOC laws.