The Origins of Château Salettes

Château Salettes is one of the oldest estates in the Bandol appellation, with a history dating back to 1604. The Ricard family, merchants based at the Old Port of Marseille, acquired the estate that year—drawn by a longing for life among vineyards, olive trees, and open countryside. Over the centuries, generations of the Ricard de la Gaillardière, Ricard, and eventually Boyer families have cultivated this stony land, where Mourvèdre—the noble grape of Bandol—thrives.

The name “Salettes” originates from “Salets,” a term referencing the site’s historical role in storing salt, a valuable commodity during the Middle Ages.

Until 1956, the estate produced equal parts wine and olive oil. However, the devastating frost of that year—the infamous “Grand Gel”—wiped out most of the olive groves, shifting the focus entirely to viticulture.

Château Salettes Today

Today, Château Salettes continues to cultivate its land with deep respect for tradition and terroir, producing AOC Bandol and IGP Méditerranée wines. Expect the bold character of our reds, the elegance of our whites, and the vibrant freshness of our rosés.

Since the 2018 vintage, the estate has been certified organic by Ecocert—a commitment to sustainable, eco-conscious farming that reflects our core values. For us, preserving the planet begins with caring for our land.

This is the journey we’ve embraced—and we’re proud to share it with you.