Moulin Castelas: Provence's Liquid Gold

Moulin Castelas stands as a testament to Provence's enduring olive oil tradition, blending time-honored techniques with modern innovation. Located a short distance from the perched village of Les Baux-de-Provence, this working olive mill offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of olive oil production. The story of Moulin Castelas began in 1997 when Catherine and Jean-Benoît Hugues, after living in Arizona, returned to their Provençal roots with a passion for olive trees. They fell in love with a plot of old olive trees on the southern slopes of the Alpilles, marking the beginning of their olive oil journey. Today, the estate encompasses 45 hectares within the protected Vallée des Baux de Provence Appellation d'Origine Protégée (AOP) and 65 hectares in Plaine de Crau. The olive groves are carefully cultivated, utilizing sustainable practices, with a portion dedicated to organic farming. The varieties of olives grown include Salonenque, Aglandau, Grossane, and Verdale, each contributing unique characteristics to the final olive oil blends. The Hugues family built their own mill in 2002, modeled after a winery, to meticulously control every stage of the olive oil-making process, from selecting the harvest date to the extraction and blending methods. This dedication to quality and control has resulted in olive oils that consistently win awards at the Concours Général Agricole in Paris. A visit to Moulin Castelas provides a fascinating glimpse into the olive oil production process. Tours, often free and available upon reservation, guide visitors through the mill, explaining each step from the arrival of the olives to the bottling of the oil. During harvest season, typically from mid-October to the end of November, visitors can witness the olives being harvested with combs and nets before being transported to the mill. The olives are then de-leafed, cleaned, and crushed to create a paste. The paste is mixed in a mixer for 20-30 minutes to release the oil, maintaining a temperature below 27°C for cold extraction. The oil is then separated from the solids through centrifugation, and the solids are recycled as compost for the olive trees. The highlight of a visit to Moulin Castelas is the opportunity to taste their exceptional olive oils. The mill produces a range of olive oils, each with its own distinct flavor profile. The Classic AOP Vallée des Baux de Provence is a blend of the four local olive varieties, offering a balanced and fruity flavor. The Noir d'Olive AOP Vallée des Baux is made with matured olives, resulting in a milder, more delicate flavor. The mill also produces organic olive oils, as well as flavored olive oils infused with lemon, basil, thyme, and other herbs. In addition to olive oil, Moulin Castelas offers a selection of Provençal delicacies, including tapenades, olive pastes, and olives. These products are made with the same dedication to quality and tradition as their olive oils, making them the perfect souvenir of a visit to Provence. Beyond the production and tasting experiences, Moulin Castelas offers a connection to the land and the traditions of Provence. The surrounding landscape, with its rolling hills and ancient olive trees, evokes a sense of tranquility and timelessness. The passion of the Hugues family for their craft is evident in every aspect of the mill, from the meticulous care of the olive groves to the warm hospitality extended to visitors. Moulin Castelas is more than just an olive oil mill; it is a celebration of Provençal heritage and a testament to the enduring appeal of this sun-drenched region. Les Baux-de-Provence, one of the most beautiful villages in France, is perched on a rocky spur and offers panoramic views of the Alpilles. The village has a rich architectural heritage, with historical monuments, art galleries, and craft workshops. Visitors can explore the ruins of the Château des Baux-de-Provence, wander through the cobblestone streets, and discover the Carrières de Lumières, a unique art experience set in a former quarry. The village is also home to gourmet restaurants and hotels, making it an ideal base for exploring the Alpilles region. The Alpilles Regional Natural Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, and its trails wind through olive groves, vineyards, and forests. Visitors can also explore the charming villages of the Alpilles, such as Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Maussane-les-Alpilles, each with its own unique character and attractions. The Alpilles region is also known for its wine production, with several vineyards offering tours and tastings. The wines of Les Baux-de-Provence are made with organic or biodynamic methods, reflecting the region's commitment to sustainability. Moulin Castelas is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in olive oil, Provençal culture, or sustainable agriculture. The mill offers a unique opportunity to learn about the olive oil-making process, taste exceptional olive oils, and connect with the land and the people who cultivate it. Whether you are a seasoned olive oil connoisseur or a curious traveler, a visit to Moulin Castelas will be a memorable experience. The combination of tradition, innovation, and passion makes Moulin Castelas a true gem of Provence. Its commitment to quality and sustainability ensures that its olive oils will continue to be celebrated for generations to come. A visit to Moulin Castelas is an invitation to savor the flavors of Provence and to experience the magic of this enchanting region.