In the 1970s, Alain Conbard began crafting wines in Chablis (Burgundy) alongside his partner, Michel Laroche. Yet, his adventurous and exploratory spirit led him in 1992 to seek out other, less-known terroirs and regions. His journey brought him to Provence (in southeastern France), a region not widely acclaimed, devoid of large industrial vineyards, but where high-quality rosés began to be produced. Traditionally, this region had not been known for its fine wines; however, tourism changed everything when holidaymakers and celebrities started spending their vacations there. The latter group, having invested in large estates without vineyards, longed for a refreshing wine to pair with beach days and time on private yachts, thus setting out to create a wine culture. Among them was Alain Conrad, who from his winery Figuière decided to elevate rosé to the level of a fine white wine. And he succeeded with Figuière Méditerranée.
Figuière Méditerranée is a rosé originating from the 18 hectares that the family manages today at Domaine Saint André de Figuière, in the town of La Londe-les-Maures, just 20 kilometers from the Mediterranean. There, under the supervision of Delphine (his wife) and François and Magali (his children), grow Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Syrah vines that thrive on phyllades, a soil rich in schist and streaked with quartz. Its proximity to the sea acts as a thermal regulator, creating a distinct climate with very low rainfall (less than 700 mm per year), abundant sunshine, favorable ventilation conditions—thanks to the sea breeze—and minimal temperature variation between winter and summer. This land, maintained free from chemical fertilizers, is cultivated using organic methods, which has led to Ecocert certification.
As for the vinification, Figuière Méditerranée is founded on one fundamental principle: minimal possible intervention. Respecting the raw materials, not forcing fermentation, preserving the uniqueness of each plot... And the best part is its price! Without a doubt, Figuière Méditerranée represents the quintessential way to experience Provençal wines. And incidentally, with each sip, it transports one to the days of summer... A welcome escape every now and then.