Domaine de l'Avellan
Presentation
In 2018, following a degree in biology and several agricultural placements abroad, Mathieu Dodin took over the estate with a clear ambition: to revitalise the soil and establish viticulture on a sustainable footing. The transition to organic farming began as soon as he arrived, accompanied by diversification into olive groves, laying hens and the gradual restoration of old chestnut trees.
Vineyard work prioritises manual labour and limits the use of machinery to what is strictly necessary. The grapes are harvested exclusively by hand to preserve their integrity.
Soil health is at the heart of this approach. Mechanical work is kept to a minimum, whilst on-site compost, green manure and winter grazing by ewes help to maintain the soil’s fertility and natural balance.
This approach fosters a thriving ecosystem where insects, birds and microfauna play a natural part in the life of the vineyard. The vineyard is thus fully integrated into its environment, at the heart of the wild and unspoilt Massif des Maures.
After seven years devoted to restoring the vineyard, the creation of the winery in 2024 now enables wine to be made directly on site. The wines are produced without additives, with limited use of sulphites, in a quest for an authentic expression of the terroir.
The estate offers, in particular, ‘Le Babaou’, a white Côtes de Provence, as well as several red wines: ‘La Coucouline’, ‘Le Clos Saint-Guillaume’ and ‘Nature Peinture’. As for rosés, ‘La Source’ and ‘Adèle’ complete the range.
These are high-altitude, artisanal and vibrant wines that sincerely express the unique identity of the Domaine de l’Avellan and its terroir in the heart of the Maures massif.
TASTINGS
You can also explore the estate through guided tours and tastings by appointment.
This is an opportunity to discover the vineyard, its surroundings and Mathieu Dodin’s philosophy behind his various wines.
