The Vineyard and the « Terroir »

In the heart of Provence, the Domaine du Deffends is an exceptional site between the foothills of Monts Auréliens and the Via Aurélia, the ancient roman road.

This family run vineyard spreads out over 14 unbroken hectares. For more than 30 years, we have worked every day to get the best from the « terroir » and to find distinctive expressions in our wines. To achieve this aim we have planted seven different varieties, Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet, Sauvignon, Cinsault, Rolle and Viognier, all adapted to our chalky clay soil, ideal south-east orientation and Mediterranean climate.

We are committed to working the land and the vines, but also to olive trees, fruit trees and the forest, all with respect to an ecosystem with a great wealth of fauna and flora. Whether with the machines or natural products, we help to maintain the balance and favour a slow and natural nurturing of the fruit. The vineyard has adopted ecological standards (Ecocert). Our production is voluntarily maintained at a low level (35hl/ha) by short vine height and Royat cordoning, and if necessary, early harvesting.

As soon as the « vendanges » or harvest starts, the collected grapes are fed directly into the vats. The whites are pressed immediately to avoid oxidization and needless handling. The reds are pigés or remontés to get the best out of the berries. The temperature remains carefully controlled to allow the aromas to open out.

Each year, we adapt our wine making to correspond to the characteristics of the harvest while always endeavouring to find the perfect expression of the land. It is also for this reason that some of our wines are not produced every year. It is our way to explore, to progress, to make better and better wine. That is our passion and that is what drives us as vintners.