Provence get its first cru

Côtes de Provence sub-region Sainte-Victoire has been officially recognised as the first cru of Provence – a milestone for the region's rosé and red wines and a boost for producers aiming for greater recognition and prestige.

Long admired for its elegant wines and dramatic landscapes beneath Montagne Sainte-Victoire, Sainte-Victoire now holds cru status, elevating it beyond the ‘additional geographical designation’ label it has held since 2005.

This promotion in status is the result of years of effort from local winemakers and the Provence wine board (CIVP), with hopes it will shine a brighter spotlight on the area's unique terroir.

With its cooling Mistral winds, limestone soils and higher elevation plus protection from the Mediterranean heat by a range of mountains, Sainte-Victoire’s wines have a distinct freshness to them. While prices aren’t expected to rise significantly, producers are hoping the cru label will highlight the quality of their wines.