As far back as Antiquity, the Roman road of Julienne crossed the vineyards of today. In the 14th century, the site was owned by the Knights Templar and subsequently passed down to the great noble families of Provence. Over the following decades, the estate was inherited and then resold.
An unexpected vocation
In 1994, Valérie Roussel bought it from the Ott family (a well-known winemaking family in the region). Originally from Saint-Tropez, she worked in the luxury hotel business for many years before discovering the property by chance. When she acquired the estate, it consisted of 70 hectares. Today, it has doubled the size of its estate to 140 hectares, 90 of which are classified growths. It was a real success for the woman who learned the winemaking trade on the job.
The latter has always favored the production of rosés of the highest quality. Considered a true benchmark, they are sold all over the world. Valérie’s production is made up of 13 native Provençal grape varieties, to ensure a meticulous production process. This is proof that rosé can be a real wine. It also confirms the rising quality of the region’s wines.
One of these cuvées, called “La Vie en Rose”, is the ambassador of the range, bringing aromas of vine flowers and English candy, particularly appreciated as an aperitif. For the record, it was this rosé that Emmanuel Macron chose to celebrate his victory with his close friends and family in the 2017 presidential election.
A committed owner
A committed feminist, Valérie presides over an association that brings together more than 30 women from the world of wine in Provence to share advice and know-how, in an environment that is still too often male-dominated. She also works for a number of associations, such as Octobre Rose, which supports women with breast cancer.
À In the future, Valérie and her team want to confirm their position as ambassadors of this beautiful Provence and continue to produce top-quality wines. In fact, she has begun to hand over the reins to her son Adrien, who is learning the ins and outs of production alongside her.
Champagne and wine lover ! 🥂🍷
