Château La Coste

Visiting Château La Coste in Provence was an experience that seamlessly blended art, architecture, and viticulture, creating a destination that transcends the traditional winery visit. As an importer for their Argentine project, La Coste de Los Andes, I was eager to explore the estate’s offerings firsthand.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by a vast reflecting pool adorned with contemporary artworks, including the striking “Crouching Spider” sculpture by Louise Bourgeois. This introduction set the tone for the estate’s harmonious integration of modern art within its historic landscape. Spanning approximately 494 acres, with 321 acres dedicated to vineyards, Château La Coste has a winemaking heritage that dates back to Roman times. The estate’s commitment to organic farming was recognized with the “Organic Farming” label in 2009, and by 2013, the entire vineyard was cultivated organically. In 2021, they began converting to biodynamic practices, achieving Demeter certification with the 2022 vintage.

The estate boasts a range of facilities, including a Michelin-starred villa, a spa, and multiple restaurants helmed by renowned chefs such as Francis Mallmann and Hélène Darroze. This fusion of modern luxury with traditional Provençal charm creates a unique ambiance that is both inviting and inspiring.

While the art and architecture tours are a significant draw, my primary focus was the wine. Typically, large estates can produce wines that feel commercially driven, lacking the nuanced touch of smaller producers. However, Château La Coste defied this expectation. Their state-of-the-art winery, designed by architect Jean Nouvel, is both expansive and meticulously maintained. Tasting through their lineup—which includes whites, rosés, reds, sparkling wines, and even non-alcoholic options—I was impressed by the elegance and authenticity present in each bottle. The wines are crafted to complement food, embodying a balance and sophistication that reflect the estate’s biodynamic principles.

Lunch at their Italian restaurant, Vanina, was a delightful interlude. Specializing in wood-fired pizzas and pasta made with fresh, organic ingredients, it offered a refreshing departure from the traditional Provençal cuisine I had been enjoying. The meal was both delicious and comforting, underscoring the estate’s dedication to quality in all its endeavors.

Unfortunately, due to the pouring rain, an art tour was not feasible that day. However, the brief glimpses I caught of the installations and the serene landscape have left me eager to return. Château La Coste is a place where creativity and tradition coexist beautifully, offering visitors a multifaceted experience that engages all the senses. I look forward to exploring more of what this magical estate has to offer in the future.