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Mas du Clos de l’Escarrat Review – Countryside Cottage in Provence

21 Oct, 2013

Mas du Clos de l’Escarrat is a true find in Provence. It is set in a charming 17th century Provencal cottage set amidst the middle of nature. The place is well hidden behind the roads of Jonquieres, offering all the tranquility and privacy of the countryside. Apart form the endless vineyards around the estate, you can relax in the large garden, hammock or swing or lounge by the pool. There is also a trampoline, resident dogs and cat, which is why Mas du Clos de l’Escarrat is a favourite for families with children too.  Plus there is a lot to explore in the area with activities such biking (you can rent your bikes at the B&B) and hiking in the nearby Dentelles de Montmirail. No wonder many people chose to stay here a week a longer.


The B&B has only 4 elegant rooms, each with their own kitchen / kitchennete for people who want to self-cater. And why wouldn’t you when the local vegetables and fruit are fantastic. The Mistral apartments have their own balcony directly overlooking the vineyards of the Cotes du Rhone. We stayed in the Ouveze apartment which opened up into the garden to the view of a colossal old tree and flowers. Our room was well equipped – large bathroom, towels, microwave, fridge and coffee-making machine.


We were very lucky to come by Charles & Andrée, a husband & wife team that have been running this B&B passionately for nearly 20 years. Their goal is to make every guests experience that extra more special, be it with a bespoke wine tour, cultural guide, wine tastings or a home-cooked gastronomic experience. Charles & Andrèe offer their guests the opportunity to enjoy a 4 course dinner served with Limoges porcelain, gold plates and Baccarrat crystal glasses. There is also a cheese tray which you can try pairing with local wines. And you get to take home remaining wine bottles to drink later!


Charles kindly greeted us upon arrival, showed us to our room and later whisked us to Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Vacqueyras for a private tour of his favourite wineries. Having lived in the area for a long time, Charles knows the best non-commercial producers. He took us to an organic wine producer in Vacqueyras, Clos de Caveau, whose production is so small (50,000 bottles), it sells out very quickly. Needless to say, the wine was very good. Their funky label is designed by Karl Lagerfeld’s creative team. It was a special experience to meet the winemaker Henry who explained to us the terroir of the region. 


Having just toured Chateauneuf-du-Pape on our own earlier we thought we have discovered all the caveaus/tasting cellars. Charles then surprised us when he took us to a secret wine tasting cave in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Les Caves St Charles. Candles, bottles and solemn music made you feel like you stepped back in time, when the monks were still making wines in this region. The highlight was meeting Guy, the owner and sommelier by profession, who through his years of working in the wine industry has managed to collect only the most special wines of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Guy’s reputation brings him many clients wishing to buy only the best CDP. If you would like to visit his Caveau du Charles, we recommend you make an appointment (or ask Charles to take you!).


Our verdict on Mas du Clos de l’Escarrat:

You will not regret coming to Mas du Clos de l’Escarrat, because Charles and Andree will make their home your home.

Highs:

  • Family-run B&B with wonderful hosts Charles & Andree
  • In the middle of the nature with splendid views of vineyards and Mount Ventoux
  • Great for a family vacation with the children
  • The hosts are your best guides of the area organizing wine tours and more
  • Home-cooked dinners

 

Lows:

  • Closed from November to March
  • Do not expect luxury at your feet. The place is charming, is spotless and has all the amenities but is not your ultra modern resort.
  • No TV
  • Breakfast not included in the price

 

Reviewed by: Tatiana Livesey, Winerist Co-founder.



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