Our Terroir
History of an inspiring terroir
Seeing the Montagne Sainte-Victoire for the first time feels like witnessing the dawn of the world, nestled within a vast, unspoiled, and authentic natural setting. It reminds us every day of our role as guardians of the land – studying, protecting, and respecting our environment. As winemakers in Sainte-Victoire, we are deeply aware of our responsibility to preserve this fragile ecosystem.
85 million years ago
Dinosaurs roamed this preserved land some 85 million years ago. For centuries, traces of this ancient past lay hidden underground, with fossilised eggs emerging as the majestic Montagne Sainte-Victoire took form.
Around 600 BC
Inspired by the energy of this extraordinary place, the Phoceans planted the first vines in France, unwittingly giving birth to Provence’s emblematic wine, rosé.
1882 – 1906
Years later, Sainte-Victoire, a symbol of Provence’s character, would become Paul Cézanne’s creative terroir. Elusive and inspiring, the mountain is celebrated in over 80 of the artist’s paintings, capturing its light, colours, and distinctive shapes.
1982
Antoni Gassier, already the owner of an estate in the Var region, acquired the Gassier property in Puyloubier, along with its 40 hectares of vines.
2009
After learning every facet of winemaking alongside his father, Georges Gassier (5th generation) took over the estate and continued its legacy.
2023
For several years now, Georges has been passing on his passion and expertise to his son Jean, as they work together on the estate.
