Maison Austruy - Commanderie de Peyrassol

Commanderie de Peyrassol: A Millennia-Old Estate with Templar Heritage

Located on the foothills of the Massif des Maures, between 220 and 350 meters in altitude, Commanderie de Peyrassol is a historic estate whose origins date back to 1204, when the Knights Templar received these lands as a donation from the Count of Provence. For centuries, the vineyard thrived under the guidance of the Templars, followed by the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, before being passed down through successive Provençal families. In 2001, a new chapter began with Philippe Austruy, a wine and history enthusiast, who undertook a complete restoration of the vineyard and estate. Today, Commanderie de Peyrassol continues this legacy, establishing itself as a model of excellence and a guardian of Provence’s winemaking traditions.

A Unique High-Altitude Terroir for Authentic Wines

Spanning 900 hectares of garrigue, oak forests, and olive groves, Commanderie de Peyrassol cultivates over 90 hectares of vineyards in a pristine natural environment. The soil, derived from the weathering of the bedrock, is predominantly clay-limestone, contributing to wines with remarkable freshness and minerality. The Mediterranean climate, combined with temperature variations enhanced by altitude and the natural protection of the Massif des Maures, allows for optimal grape maturation, resulting in balanced and elegant wines.

Commanderie de Peyrassol produces wines renowned for their precision and finesse. The estate crafts rosé, white, and red wines from carefully selected grape varieties, including:

- White wines: Rolle, Ugni Blanc, and Sémillon.

- Rosé and red wines: Cinsault, Grenache, Tibouren, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The diversity of soils and precise parcel identification enable rigorous plot-by-plot vinification, ensuring wines of exceptional purity and aromatic expression. The rosés exude notes of red berries, citrus, and white flowers, while the reds offer complex layers of red fruits, oak, and spice.

Maison Austruy - Commanderie de Peyrassol: A Commitment to Organic and Sustainable Practices

Dedicated to preserving its natural heritage, Commanderie de Peyrassol has been officially certified organic since the 2022 vintage. This transition aligns with a philosophy of environmental respect, where every stage of viticulture is designed to enhance biodiversity.

Sustainable initiatives include:

- Optimized parcel management, with 63 homogeneous plots identified based on their characteristics.

- Organic farming, significantly reducing chemical inputs.

- Natural vineyard protection, incorporating truffle oaks, olive trees, and native garrigue vegetation.

Philippe Austruy’s vision for Commanderie de Peyrassol extends beyond winemaking. The estate is home to a monumental sculpture park, featuring works by internationally renowned artists. This unique space allows visitors to explore one of Provence’s most breathtaking vineyards while discovering an extraordinary cultural heritage.

With its ancient legacy, exceptional terroir, organic farming commitment, and the visionary leadership of Philippe Austruy, Commanderie de Peyrassol stands as a benchmark for fine wines of Provence. Seamlessly blending history, nature, and modernity, this estate is a must-visit destination for lovers of exceptional wines.