Baux-de-Provence: France’s First Fully Organic AOP

In France, there is now a renowned AOP region where all wineries are certified organic.

Reading time: 45s

Vineyards in the AOP Baux-de-Provence. (Photo: Chris Coffman/stock.adobe.com)
Vineyards in the AOP Baux-de-Provence. (Photo: Chris Coffman/stock.adobe.com)

The Baux-de-Provence wine region has become the first French AOP to be fully certified organic. Since 2023, every wine produced by the region’s 12 wineries carries the organic seal. Spanning 277 ha/685 ac s, this area produces red, rosé, and—since 2010—white wines.

Located at the western edge of Provence, Baux-de-Provence is surrounded by the Alpilles Natural Park. The small mountain range creates unique conditions for the vineyards on its northern and southern slopes. With limestone-rich soils, ample sunlight, and the drying influence of the Mistral wind, winemakers enjoy ideal conditions for prioritizing quality through organic practices.

In addition to their work in viticulture, local winemakers are dedicated to preserving the ecosystem. Collaborating with the natural park, they enhance biodiversity by maintaining olive groves, gardens, and hedgerows, and by taking measures to protect wildlife. Nearly all 12 wineries also produce olive oil under the AOP Vallée des Baux de Provence label, and these oils are also certified organic. MS

Insights

As temperatures rise, underfunded researchers focus their attention on selecting vines that will resist climate change. But it's a race against time. Felix Bodmann reports.

Reading time: 5m 30s

 

 

Latest Articles