Domaine Saint Andrieu

Domaine Saint Andrieu is located in the Provencal hinterland near the village of Correns. Jean-Paul and Nancy Bignon, who also own the Bordeaux fourth growth Château Talbot in Saint-Julien, acquired the property in 2003. They were drawn to the site by its preserved natural state, which includes 600 hectares of forest and scrubland. Upon purchase, the Bignons launched an extensive restoration project for both the vineyard and the cellar facilities, including the remodeling of an 18th century bastide. The estate takes its name from the Saint Andrieu spring, which is the most significant of the three natural water sources that feed the land.

The vineyard holdings span approximately 30 hectares at an average altitude of 380 meters, where the continental influenced microclimate features early springs and hot, dry summers. These plots are situated on terraced plateaus and hillsides characterized by clay and limestone soils. The estate is split between two appellations. A 16 hectare block on southern slopes produces Côtes de Provence, while a 15 hectare northern section on deeper, windier terrain is dedicated to Coteaux Varois en Provence. Winemaking involves technical precision, utilizing a gravity fed 750 square meter cellar equipped with 1900 hectoliters of stainless steel vats. Harvesting occurs at night to preserve acidity, and the estate has held High Environmental Value (HVE) certification since 2017.

Production covers red, white, and rosé wines using traditional regional varieties. The rosés are made from Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, focusing on a pale color and citrus profiles. White wines are typically produced from 100 percent Rolle, highlighting a balance of roundness and freshness. Red wines are often Syrah dominant and mature in oak barrels sourced from Château Talbot in Bordeaux, which contributes to their spice and blackberry character. The property also produces extra virgin olive oil from nine hectares of dedicated groves. Its wines are recognized for reflecting the elevation and water rich terroir of the upper Var.