In the dog days of August when the coast is crowded and baking in the heat, Vignoble Rasse in Saint Jeannet offers the perfect escape. Anyone who regularly shops in the Cours Saleya or Liberation markets knows that the best and freshest vegetables come from the fields and greenhouses around Saint Jeannet. Less well-known are the vineyards that carpet the slopes just outside the village. Only 25km northwest of Nice, the Rasse vineyards seem like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the coast.

The Rasse family has generations of experience producing wine from the fertile soil of Saint Jeannet, supplying local stores and restaurants with the fruit of their labor. Their operation is open for wine-tasting and events all year but in August they also have special apéro evenings with food on Thursdays and Fridays.

On a recent visit, we basked in the rustic ambiance, the views and the warm, familial vibe. The terrain is spacious enough that guests have plenty of room to relax in peace and privacy.

We ordered a lovely Principium blend that perfectly complemented our cheese plate, hummus and empanadas.

The delicious dishes are prepared on site by the family while we sipped our crisp white wine which tasted like. . .summer on the Riviera!

Note that the apero evenings (Thurs-Fri 19-22h) must be reserved in advance through the Rasse website or Facebook page or by calling 06 70 55 70 11. Get specific directions as the vineyard can be tricky to find. Prices are most reasonable. Snacks start at €5 and a bottle of wine starts at €22.