A heritage rooted in Provence
Château de Taurenne - SCEA La Tortue
- 5800 Route de Tourtour
- 83630 Aups - France
- Tel. +33 (0)4 98 10 21 35
- contact@domaine-de-taurenne.fr
Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm non-stop. Except public holidays.
History of the Taurenne Estate
The Domaine de Taurenne boasts a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Initially owned by the Knights Templar, it gradually evolved into a thriving agricultural estate. For centuries, the terraces surrounding the château were cultivated, notably with olive trees. Despite hardships—frost, fires, and neglect—the olive tree has remained a symbol of the estate's resilience.
In 1999, a new era began: with respect for its past, the estate was replanted with over 11,000 olive trees, including local varieties such as Bouteillan and Aglandau. Today, Taurenne olive oil embodies not only the richness of its terroir, but also a centuries-old heritage of nature, tradition, and expertise.
The castle
The Château de Taurenne is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and one of the last Var buildings dating from the Middle Ages.
The origins of Taurenne Castle date back to around the 12th century. Built on a promontory, it overlooks the southern part of the property, which is covered with garrigue and woodlands of pines and oaks.
It is an imposing fortified castle, flanked by four crenellated round towers, which once belonged to Baron Isnard.
The Gérard family
However, there is little written information available about the Domaine de Taurenne.
"Le Petit Var", in its edition of August 9, 1931, is one of the few documents that describes it in a significant way: "in the middle of a pine forest, rises the castle of Taurenne, property of an old Toulon family, the Gérard family" .
Indeed, the Gérard family had taken possession of it at the end of the 19th century and kept it until around 1950.
Flourishing agriculture
The Order of the Templars had invested in the castle of Taurenne, probably in its early days, and had made the estate a flourishing agricultural operation.
The property was laid out from its creation in terraces located to the north of the castle where food crops were probably grown under the olive trees.
The crops persisted until the beginning of the 20th century and then gradually declined.
The olive tree remained present until the 1950s but as for the whole region, the great frost of 1956 was fatal to its cultivation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have a question about our olive oil, your order, or your delivery? Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions. Still can't find the answer to your question? Don't hesitate to contact us; we'll be happy to help.
The castle dates back to the 12th century and has a rich history as an agricultural estate, with close links to the Knights Templar.
The estate produces single-varietal olive oils, notably from the Bouteillan, Aglandau and Frantoïo varieties, as well as a PDO certified blend.
Yes, guided tours and tastings are offered. Visitors can explore the olive groves, the mill, and the winery.
The shop is open Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
Yes, the products are available via the online store on the official website of the domain.
Yes, pets are welcome on the property.
Yes, the estate regularly organizes events, such as Olive Day and art exhibitions.
Through ecological farming practices, such as the use of natural fertilizers and the reduction of pesticides, the estate contributes to the preservation of local biodiversity.
The combination of traditional cultivation methods, modern production techniques and the unique terroir of Provence results in a high-quality olive oil with a rich taste.
You can contact them by phone at +33 (0)4 98 10 21 35 or by email at the following address: contact@domaine-de-taurenne.fr .