For those of us interested in the wines of Provence, there are two events nearby that are absolutely not to be missed. The first is the Fête du Vin Nouveau in Taradeau which is held annually, for the 39th time (!), on the third Sunday in November, that is, Sunday November 16. The second event is the Fête des Vins de Bandol which is held on the weekend of December 6-7.
Fête du Vin Noveau in Taradeau – Sunday 16 November
It is not the Beaujolais Noveau that we will taste but the local wines of the 2025 vintage produced by Vignerons de Taradeau. In a large craft fair with no less than 80 exhibitors, which runs all day, there are more “older” wines to taste from various local producers and, in addition to this, there are many activities.
It all starts at half past nine in Taradeau’s church, where the priest blesses the wine and the winegrowers during mass, something you don’t see in e.g. Swedish churches!
Then follows a parade in the streets of Taradeau where Bachus’s carriage is pulled by horses, old tractors parade together with old wine tools and much more.
Most of it is free, but one highlight that you have to sign up for and pay only 39€ for is a multi-course lunch with plenty of wine for those who wish. You will be entertained from a stage with various artists playing, singing, and dancing.
More information and registration for the lunch: 0494 73 01 07, 06 95 18 11 85, feteduvintaradeau@gmail.com
Fête des Vins de Bandol – Weekend 6-7 December
Traditionally, the wine festival is held in the port of Bandol at the beginning of December and this year no less than 41 wine producers are participating. Discover the richness of the Bandol appellation, the diversity of terroirs and the complexity of the Bandol wines. From deep reds and intense rosés to elegant whites, each vintage of Bandol wines has its own story to tell. Come and enjoy young or aged wines, on site or to take home to enrich your wine cellar.
If you just want to stroll around without tasting anything, it’s free, but then you’ll miss out on all the good wines. To taste the wines, you need to buy a tasting glass with holder for only €10 in advance, buying on site is €15 instead. Add €5 and you can discover the appellation’s older vintages: a tasting focusing on the aging potential of Bandol wines in all three colours.
Enjoy the Mediterranean’s delicious food and wine combinations for an unforgettable taste experience, either at Bandol restaurateurs or at the street food carts. In addition to all this, you will be treated to music and entertainment.
More information and tickets: www.fete-des-vinsdebandol.fr
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Provence expert Göran Boman, Author of the books “Provence – White, red and also rosé wines” and “The Wines of Provence – Tricolour”.
