The terroirs of the Côtes de Provence AOP welcome their first Cru
The Provençal vineyard and Maison Gassier have reached a major milestone: the INAO (Institut National des Appellations d’Origine), the French governing body in charge of wine appellations, has approved the creation of the first cru within the Côtes de Provence appellation. Wines formerly labeled Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire will now carry the Cru Sainte-Victoire designation, recognizing a distinctive terroir at the foot of the Sainte-Victoire mountain.
A historic milestone for the Maison Gassier
Rooted for years on the slopes of Sainte-Victoire, Maison Gassier renews its commitment to a singular identity shaped by a demanding vineyard and know-how built over time. Within this limited area of 3,000 hectares across nine municipalities, Gassier farms 40 hectares of certified organic vines, divided into 26 micro-parcels to highlight the nuances of each site.
The Cru Sainte-Victoire rules are strict: at least 50% Grenache and/or Syrah, and yields capped at 50 hl/ha to protect quality. Limestone and red clay dominate the soils here. Warm days and cooler nights do the rest, producing wines that feel structured and aromatic, with a fresh edge. At Maison Gassier, the cuvées Le Pas du Moine 350, the 946, and ELEVAE express this character.
“This recognition as an official cru is far more than an achievement: it is a promise of excellence for the future. Since taking the helm of Maison Gassier, I have believed that the Sainte-Victoire terroir deserved recognition at its true value. Today, we are taking a decisive step forward. It is the result of a collective effort, unwavering rigor, and deep respect for our terroir. It is a source of pride for our appellation, our teams, and all those who share our passion.”
Olivier Souvelain, President of Maison Gassier