Palette

Palette is one of the smallest appellations in Provence . It covers 46 hectares of vineyards across the villages of Meyreuil, Aix-en-Provence, Le Tholonet, and of course, Palette itself . The subsoil is primarily limestone, and the vineyard benefits from abundant sunshine and a Mediterranean climate. It produces red , white , and rosé wines.

Château Simone

In Meyreuil, Château Simone has belonged to the Rougier family since 1830. It was Jean Rougier, at the end of the 1940s, who was responsible for the creation of the Palette AOC - the Château's vineyard represents half of the appellation ! The estate is now run by Jean-François and Florence.

The great wines of Château Simone have long been considered the finest in Provence. Château Simone Blanc is the most renowned, prized for its elegance and incredible aging potential . With age, its initially floral and fruity bouquet gains in power and finesse. The red is structured, with considerable aging potential . It is a blend of numerous grape varieties , as is the rosé.

The estate also offers Les Grands Carmes de Simone. The white wine is made from Clairette, Ugni Blanc, and Viognier grapes; it is fresh and fruity, and best enjoyed sooner than its older sibling. The rosé is a lively and delicate wine , a blend of Grenache , Mourvèdre , Cinsaut , and Merlot .

Château Henri Bonnaud

Founded by the man of the same name, Château Henri Bonnaud is located in the village of Le Tholonet. It is now run by his grandson, Stéphane Spitzglous, who has converted the 14-hectare estate to organic farming . At the heart of the Château is also a gîte (holiday cottage), offering a complete immersion in Provence.

Here you'll find three wines from the Palette AOC : Château Henri Bonnaud Rosé , Château Henri Bonnaud Rouge, and La Quintessence white wine. The rosé is delicate and elegant, with aromas of rose followed by citrus notes on the finish. The red offers hints of spice and Morello cherry; its length on the palate and silky tannins are particularly appealing. Finally, La Quintessence is an intense and complex wine with excellent aging potential, developing a golden hue over time.