Updated: August 26, 2025 • Eight-minute read (FAQ, tips, quizzes, ratings).
Ventoux AOP, a late summer jewel
Every year, starting at the end of August, Provence lights up with a golden sweetness: it's the big comeback of the Ventoux AOP grape! If you've never tasted this crunchy, juicy, and fragrant fruit, now's the time to indulge. The Ventoux grape is the star of the new school year, the simple pleasure that marks the end of the holidays and the beginning of the colorful markets. It evokes naps in the shade, large family tables, and the simple pleasure of biting into a freshly picked bunch. 🍇
But behind this round and shiny grape, there is an entire terroir, a know-how, a human story. Recognized as a Protected Designation of Origin, the Ventoux grape cultivates excellence at every stage: from the vine to the plate, it embodies the generosity of Provence, the authenticity of a unique climate and the passion of committed producers. Discover everything you need to know to choose it, savor it and share it...
An exceptional terroir at the foot of Ventoux
The Ventoux AOP grape owes everything to its environment: vineyards planted between 200 and 450 meters above sea level, in the heart of Vaucluse, with Mont Ventoux as a backdrop. There, the sun is generous, but the nights remain cool, and the mistral blows to dry the vines after the dew. This unique microclimate favors the concentration of aromas and the perfect stability of the grapes. The stony, clay-limestone soils provide the minerality that makes the Ventoux grape so crisp and light.
The producers perpetuate a centuries-old tradition: short pruning, hand-harvesting, and meticulous selection of grapes. The AOP imposes very strict specifications on varieties (Muscat à petits grains, Alphonse Lavallée, etc.), maturity, freshness, and even presentation. All this to guarantee a top-notch taste experience, bursting with sunshine but always balanced. Perhaps this is why the Ventoux grape has no equal: it embodies a terroir, an identity, and that little extra soul that makes the difference.
Want to go further? You can order a package of Muscat du Ventoux AOP grapes directly from the producer in Neary, for unparalleled freshness at home!
Serving, pairing and cooking ideas
Ventoux AOP grapes are best enjoyed on their own, as a refined snack, but there are a thousand ways to enhance them. As an aperitif, serve them on skewers with fresh goat cheese, walnuts, and a drizzle of honey: guaranteed success. They're wonderful on a platter of mature cheeses, or tucked into a mixed salad with a few arugula leaves, diced grilled chicken, and a hint of balsamic vinegar.
For a sweet touch, try adding grapes to your desserts: rustic tart, clafoutis, or simply roasted in the oven with a hint of vanilla. For those with a sweet tooth, try making a quick jam: a few chopped grapes, a little sugar and lemon, and voilà, a toast that smells of Provence. Are you a fan of vitamin-packed breakfasts? Blend it in a smoothie blender with peach and mint for a 100% energy drink.
And if you want to revolutionize your summer meals, consider pairing it with grilled meats or serving it as a fruity skewer at the end of a barbecue. Discover our inspirations in the Grills & Barbecue selection! 🔥
For a change of pace, add other seasonal fruits to your basket by choosing the super Neary fruit basket : perfect for healthy and gourmet cravings.
Tips for enjoying and storing your grapes
Want your grapes to stay crisp and fresh for a long time? Store them at the bottom of the fridge, without piling them up or washing them in advance: humidity accelerates softening. Choose an open container or a pierced box to avoid condensation. If you're preparing a platter for a picnic or brunch, leave the bunches whole until the last minute, then rinse them just before serving.
For a festive touch, place a few bunches in the freezer: they'll make perfect fruity ice cubes for your sparkling water or homemade smoothie. You can also save the slightly overripe grains to blend and make a quick sorbet base or a light sauce to accompany grilled poultry and fish!
And if you're looking to limit waste, consider the air fryer: a few lightly dried grains become a crunchy and sweet snack, a must-try. Check out our air fryer guide for inspiration!
The good plan: budget, purchases and baskets
Ventoux AOP grapes are an exceptional product, yet they remain affordable when purchased directly or in a group basket. At Neary, you can order the 6 kg Muscat du Ventoux AOP grape package, ideal for family gatherings, storage, and sharing. The price per kilo is optimized, freshness is guaranteed, and you're directly supporting local producers.
Additionally, consider seasonal fruit and vegetable baskets , which allow you to vary your diet, limit trips to the store, and enjoy the diversity of the region. Budget tip: share a package with a neighbor or colleague, and keep the bunches cool to enjoy all week. For quick recipe ideas, take a look at our blenders & smoothies or barbecue pages.
Want to receive summer in your mailbox all year round? Discover Neary subscriptions and baskets, and bring Provence into your home!
Frequently asked questions about Ventoux grapes
Are Ventoux AOP grapes treated?
The AOP specifications drastically limit treatments. Producers favor sustainable methods, often close to organic, to preserve the vines and the quality of the fruit.
How to choose a ripe bunch?
Favor firm, unblemished grapes with intact bloom (thin white skin): this is the sign of a recent harvest. Ventoux grapes retain this freshness for several days if kept cool.
Can you freeze Ventoux grapes?
Yes! Wash, drain, and spread the grains on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store them in bags: perfect for smoothies, bowls, or frozen desserts all winter long.
What other fruits can be paired with grapes in Neary baskets?
Peaches, plums, figs, and apples make perfect companions for a variety of flavors. Discover our super fruit basket for a vitamin-packed mix.
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