Domaine Le Garenne
Taking the D266 from Saint Cyr-Sur-Mer towards La Cadière d’Azur is a must. The road gently winds through olive trees and vineyards, with the road slightly sunken at parts enabling an eye-level view of the vines. As you near the village of La Cadière d’Azur, the vista opens up with the track to the Domaine de La Garenne presenting some of the best views of the Bandol Area. Lined with cyprus, olive, pine and oleander, the road down to the vineyard is impressive and lends itself to the anticipation of what’s ahead.
With wonderful views of the rolling landscape outside, the entrance to the cave was a bit of a let-down. In stark comparison to our arrival at other vineyards in the area it seemed dark and uninviting. The arrival of Madame did little to redeem itself and we felt as if we had disturbed her quiet morning. We enquired after the advertisement for a jazz dégustation in the coming days but the response was tight lipped and dismissive and we increasingly felt that we were keeping her from her daytime TV show.
The taste was quick and cork replaced at speed. The sentiment behind the pour may have sullied the sensation. The rosé itself was good enough but we left empty handed.
Tried and tasted the Comte Jean de Balincourt at €17/bottle.
Destination, drop in or drive-by? - Take a couple of pictures and drive on.
