Le Castellet & Wine Tasting

Tours in Toulon France: Le Castellet & Wine Tasting

OceansAfoot 7 years ago 4 min read

We left the port of Toulon in the balmy day for a short afternoon tour. Driving out of the town we learned about the Toulon military harbour (La Rade) which is at the port.

Heading towards Le Castellet

30 minute ride

Shortly thereafter we passed Mayol Stadium, home to the Rugby Union RC Toulonnais. Mayol Stadium is so-named after the French singer and entertainer Felix Mayol who used mostly his own money to purchase the land and fund its construction.

On the way to Le Castellet this afternoon, the sun shone in the left side of the bus. After a short ride on the A50 we exited for more narrow rural roads before arriving at the village of Le Castellet.

Le Castellet, Var, France

1 hour visit | 30 minutes guided | 30 minutes free time

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region

Initially we walked with our guide observing two overlooks.

*Surrounding vineyards that are part of the Côtes de Provence region of Bando*

*Overlook of the area named La Grande Bastide*

Then after taking in a few of her favorite shops we had some free time. We used our free time mostly taking photos around the town.

*The iron work on the windows and the greenery made this town very charming*

*There were nice shops all around the town*

We also partook in some some locally produced goods while visiting the highly adorned shops.

*The Art Gallery showcased many unique items*

*The bouquets were beautiful at the local floral shop*

*A sampling of the fine salts and spices available*

Like clockwork, we departed Le Castellet and after a short drive, arrived at Domaine Souviou.

15 minute drive

Domaine Souviou, Le Beausset, France

Domaine Souviou is a 15th century chateau with an adjacent chapel anchoring the property. From this vantage, far above the Mediterranean Sea, over 6000 olive trees rise majestically in the distance.

*An old stone mill used for making olive oil*

Following the groundskeeper of Domaine Souviou, we began a historical vineyard walk. But, just as the tour had begun our guide pulled the groundskeeper aside to say we didn’t have time for the tour. Therefore, we went straight to the tasting room.

Wine Tasting Domaine Souviou, Le Beausset, France

For the tasting we entered a large downstairs room with chairs setup for our group and the group proceeding us. Here we sampled three of the Domaine Souviou wine blends.

*The Wine Tasting Room was setup to accommodate large groups*

Wine #1

Domaine Souviou Bandol White 2016

Visual: Beautiful pale yellow dress with green and silvery reflections.
Smell: Subtle notes of white flowers, honeysuckle, exotic fruits and peach.
Taste: Elegant and fine, with pineapple and apricot aromas. Nice length, with a fresh and salty finish.

Wine #2

Domaine Souviou Cotes de Provence Rose 2017

Visual: Pale pink color, slightly salmony.
Smell: Fresh nose with notes of white peaches, nectarines and citrus fruits.
Taste: On the palate the wine is lively, crunchy, with breadth. The fruits of the orchard seem to lead the dance (peaches, apricots, mirabelle plums). Mineral finish.

Wine #3

Domaine Souviou Cotes de Provence Red 2014

Visual: Garnet red, crystalline.
Smell: Fresh and expressive nose with notes of red fruits, peat and undergrowth.
Taste: Lively attack accompanied by aromas of red fruits and basalt. Silky and mineral finish.

*It was hard to pick a favorite as they were all very good wines*

Olive Oil Tasting Domaine Souviou, Le Beausset, France

The tasting also consisted of specially prepared breads with pared Olive oil tasting of the following varieties.

Olive Oil #1

PLINIA Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Smell: Herbaceous with hints of artichoke and hazelnut. Bitter and fiery with a peppery finish.
Pairings: Salad, pan-fried vegetables, fresh pasta with basil or fish.

Olive Oil #2

VIRGILIA AOC Provence Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Smell: Herbaceous, fresh almond and artichoke aromas. Bitter and fiery. Exceptional and balanced green fruit.
Pairings: Vegetables or fresh tomatoes and mozzarella.

*Nice array of breads for tasting the olive oil*

*These oils were all good in their own way*

The Barrel Room

Adjacent to the Tasting Room you can take a peek into the Barrel Room, where the fine wines of Domaine Souviou are resting to help maintain quality and flavor.