Are you traveling through Provence and looking for an authentic place to stay, far from the classical path? Domaine du Deffends, the Lanversin family’s organic vineyard in Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, welcomes you year-round for a free wine tasting—no appointment necessary.
The wine shop is open daily during the following hours: 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and 3 p.m.–6 p.m. A simple, informal gathering where you can sample the estate’s wines (rosés, reds, and whites from the Coteaux Varois en Provence appellation) and talk directly with the team about their work in the vineyard and the winery. Because here, behind every bottle, there is a story: the story of a clay-limestone terroir at the foot of the Sainte-Baume mountain range, of vineyards cultivated organically for many years, and of a long-standing family commitment to producing wines that reflect both character and terroir.
Tastings are free for individual visitors, with the expectation that they will make a purchase. It’s also the perfect opportunity to pack a few bottles you’ve carefully selected after tasting them on site.
Are you visiting as a group, or would you like a guided tour of the estate (vineyards, winery, and an explanation of organic winemaking methods)? That is certainly possible, but only with advance reservations for groups of 10 or more. A more immersive format that allows you to delve deeper into the estate and take a look behind the scenes.
The Domaine du Deffends is one of those places you keep to yourself—but eventually end up recommending to others.