On the way to the Sault plateau, a series of hill fields and lookout points take you from the fertile, irrigated plains of Provence to the more arid highlands of Provence, land of sweeping panoramas of the Comtat area.
THE COMTAT TERRACES
–
SAVOURS
– Truffles
At the base of Mont Ventoux, come November and up until mid-March, is the time for truffles, or «Rabasse» as truffles are called in Provencal.
The truffle starts life at the foot of a green oak, olive tree or hazelnut tree.
As it grows, it emanates a fragrance that dogs and pigs have been trained to detect.
They lead the way, and the owner follows, ready to dig where they indicate.
The most sought after truffle is the Tuber Melanosporum, the black truffle.
It varies in size from 3 to 5 centimetres diameter, and is round and bumpy in shape.
Mont Ventoux is famous as one of the biggest truffle-producing areas in the world.
–
FESTIVITIES
–
Asparagus Festival
In April in Mormoiron
Lavender Festival
15 August in Sault
–
TRADITION
–
The Cotes du Ventoux Winemakers Confraternity
In 1982, a small group of wine lovers, experts on wine and the soils, created a group they placed under the protection of Saint Marc, thus reviving the Confrérie des Vignerons des Côtes du Ventoux.
At the origin, members were bound to provide assistance and succour in times of trouble.
Today, the Confrérie is the ambassador for Côtes du Ventoux wines, and ins active in many special events that it organises.
In 1983, the sumptuous green robes of the chevaliers were introduced, preceded by the heralds. Induction ceremonies include a tasting test and oath-taking.
Newly inducted members receive the taste-vin engraved with the Poudadouïre, the symbol of the brotherhood.
Wine and Rural Heritage