This 70-hectare property (which includes 25 hectares ofvines and 5000 olive trees, some of which are over 1000 years old) has a glorious past and already appeared in the land register in 1588.

It first belonged to the Bonnasse family, merchant bankers in Marseille, then to the actress Danielle Darrieux. Mr. Auzan, the last owner, considerably developed the estate and added to its reputation. The vineyards and cellars have recently been bought by Olivier Pascal, and a new chapter in the history of SOUVIOU has just opened.

Its AOC Bandol wines and olive oil have acquired a strong reputation both within the region and abroad, backed up by the award of a number of medals.

Roger and Olivier will be pleased to show you round their estate and share their passion for their work. They will also give you an opportunity to taste their products.

Domaine de Souviou is situated in the little enclave of the Bandol appellation (1500 hectares, 52 Estates), on hills that form a natural amphitheatre facing the sea.

The clay-and-limestone soils set out on slopes and "restanques" (terraces) provide good drainage and a healthy environment for the grapes.

The soil offers very little fertility. Its natural aridity is balanced by the humidity of the sea air and a modest average rainfall of 600 mm a year.

The weather conditions described above allow the Mourvèdre, Bandol's main grape variety, to flourish.
The grapes are aIl picked by hand, carefully sorted and de-stalked. A1coholic fermentation takes place at 30°C for the reds and 18/20°C for the whites and rosés. This is followed by maceration, which varies in length according to the wine we want to produce.
Bandol Red is matured in oak barrels for a minimum of 18 months.