Cassis

The wine

Between Marseille and La Ciotat, the small vineyard of Cassis enjoys south-east exposure, the mistral wind and the proximity of the sea. Unique among Provençal appellations, Cassis produces mostly white (80% of output) from clairette, marsanne and ugni blanc, sometimes bourboulenc and sauvignon. These fresh, iodine-tinged whites, with citrus, white flowers and almond, are the historic pairing with Marseillais bouillabaisse and grilled fish. Small quantities of rosé and red exist in the classic Mediterranean style. The vineyard, an amphitheatre above the harbour, offers some of France's most beautiful wine landscapes — best discovered in spring or autumn.