The Miel de Provence PGI is obtained from flower nectar or from the sap collected by parasites, i.e., honeydew, collected from the bees on the spontaneous Provencal flora, or on specific cultures of the Provence.
Production Method
The beehives are installed in the Provence during the different nectar or honeydew emission periods. The honey is successively collected, extracted from the honeycombs and stored. It is extracted through centrifuging without heating. Following is the compulsory filtering and decanting for at least two weeks. Finally, the honey is conditioned and successively sold by measure or in jars. Pasteurisation of the honey is forbidden.
Appearance and Flavour
Miel de Provence PGI can be a single-flower honey and thus characterised by a flavour corresponding to the dominating flower origin, or a multi-flower honey, presenting a floral, vegetable or fruity aroma.
Production Area
The production area of the Miel de Provence PGI is located in the six departments of the region Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur.
History
The origins of Miel de Provence PGI are ancient and strongly tied to the Provencal tradition. The south-east of France has optimal climatic conditions and early flowerings - rosemary, starting in February-March - as well as late - heath, starting in September-October. The existence of numerous honey-producing plants and the traditional transhumance activity allow the production of varied honeys, which are historically appreciated by consumers.
Gastronomy
Miel de Provence PGI should be kept in a cool place, away from heat sources. Thanks to its natural antibacterial properties, honey can be preserved for a long time, as long as it is not exposed to direct light by storing it away from light. The Miel de Provence PGI can be used as an ingredient in both sweet and salty recipes. The ideal and traditional use of this product is for the preparation of sweets that do not require cooking, or where it is added after cooking. Honey is an energetic food, ideal for a healthy diet. It can be enjoyed as is, for example spread on a slice of bread, or even as sweetener, substituting sugar.
Marketing
The product is sold as Miel de Provence PGI. It is sold in glass containers of 250 to 500 g, but it can also be found in containers holding 5 kg.
Distinctive Features
The notoriety of Miel de Provence PGI is closely linked to its typicality and to its aromatic properties, which are strongly linked to the tree and flower varieties present in the production area.
