Sculptor designs Côtes de Provence bottle

A long-standing friendship between artist Bernar Venet and a vineyard owner gave birth to this limited edition bottle.

At the heart of Provence, in the foothills of the Massif des Maures, the fertile estate of the Commanderie de Peyrassol covers nearly 950 hectares of which 90 hectares are under vines.

Founded in the 13th century by the Knights Templar, which were succeeded by the Knights of the Order of Malta, the Commanderie de Peyrassol began as a stage stop for pilgrims on the way to the Holy Land. The current owner Philippe Austruy and his team ensure the site's reputation for a high standard of wine growing.

The Peyrassol estate grows Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tibouren and Merlot for its red wines; and Rolle, Ugni -Blanc, Semillon, Sauvignon, White Muscat, Clairette and Viognier for the white.

As an art enthusiast Philippe Austruy has also made Peyrassol the site of an open-air museum, to which he adds new pieces that catch his eye. Nestled between vineyards and woods, the estate contains a sublime walk that takes visitors among a collection of monumental sculptures. The collection showcases 40 works in a stunning and original setting. The sculptures created by Bernar Venet are part of the Commanderie de  Peyrassol's art collection.

The friendship between the artist and the owner of the estate gave birth to the Noir de Bernar, AOP Côtes de Provence 2011 limited edition. The artist designed the bottle specifically for this vintage, which he personally selected for its quality.

The wine is produced from hand picked Syrah (60%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (40%) grapes, selectively sorted and aged for one year in stainless steel tanks. In the UK, it is listed with Majestic Wine Warehouse.

22 April 2014 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor