Following the great enthusiasm sparked by its inaugural edition in 2024, the Aix-Marseille-Provence Metropolis has renewed its commitment to local agriculture by launching the 2025 edition of the Agricultural Prize for Provence Products. This competition, a showcase of regional flavors and craftsmanship, aims to reward, diversity, and excellence of the region’s products.
Driven by a strong desire to promote sustainable agriculture, the prize highlights time-honored traditions as well as innovative initiatives that symbolize a dynamic terroir looking confidently to the future.
This year’s competition includes thirteen categories. Alongside wines, olive oils, honey, juices, beers, and confectionery, two new products are joining the lineup. Camargue oysters, produced under a quality certification scheme, expand the scope of the competition to coastal agricultural products. Meanwhile, the traditional baguette, made with locally sourced flours, celebrates the craft of the region’s bakers.
Through this award, the Metropolis reaffirms its commitment to supporting the local economy, promoting short supply chains, and showcasing the region’s rich heritage to both the public and industry professionals.
Showcasing the region’s talents
They represent the excellence, passion, and savoir-faire of today’s Provence. Winemakers, confectioners, brewers, and olive growers winners of the 2024 Agricultural Prize for Provence Products illustrate the richness and diversity of the region’s production.
Provence in a glass
At Domaine des Diables in Puyloubier, at the foot of Mont Sainte-Victoire, Virginie Fabre and Guillaume Philip represent a bold new generation of winemakers. Awarded for their “Rose Bonbon” (rosé) and “MiP Collection” (red), their work reflects elegance, precision, and deep love of the land. Their label “MiP – Made in Provence”, launched in 2005, has become a hallmark of elegance and innovation. Among the other award-winners in this category are equally talented winemakers, such as Vignoble du Roy René and Domaine Richeaume. A must-try with your eyes closed!
Calisson in the spotlight
In Aix-en-Provence, Maison Le Roy René has carried on the delicate art of calisson-making since 1920. Crafted with Provence almonds, candied melon from Apt, and honey, this legendary sweet embodies artisanal excellence paired with a sustainable ethos reviving almond tree cultivation, preserving biodiversity, and supporting the local supply chain.
The creative spirit of Marseille beer
In Marseille, Brasserie Zoumaï won over the jury with its white beer “Gaby,” the brewery’s very first recipe. Brewed onsite in a welcoming brewpub that celebrates local culture and gastronomy, this craft beer reflects a vibrant and socially engaged urban Provence.
Green gold from Saint-Cannat
North of Aix, Château Montaurone has mastered the art of olive oil. Their fruity green, extra virgin oil was distinguished in the competition for its finesse and flawless traceability. Certified organic since 2016, the estate oversees the entire production process from harvesting to bottling. Four unique journeys, united by a common thread: a deep love for the product and the land.
A collective drive to make Provence shine
The Agricultural Prize for Provence Products culminated in the festive atmosphere of the first edition of the “Préférence Provence” fair an unprecedented event held in Marseille by the Metropolis and the Department, in partnership with the Bouches-du-Rhône Chamber of Agriculture. Tastings, entertainment, a market, animal exhibits, a festive night event, and the awards ceremony make for a vibrant celebration of the Provençal way of life. Here, tradition and innovation walk hand in hand, serving a way of life like no other.
