When in Provence, it’s only appropriate to do as the locals do and drink rosé! My Chardonnay-loving mother even came around to the pink drink!
Rosé is certainly having a moment these days. For those curious about what makes a rosé, it’s a style of wine, like red or white, the color is determined by the amount of time that the juice is kept in contact with the skins. Often it’s a matter of only a few hours to get that kiss of pink.
Provence is often thought of as the birthplace, and the gold standard when it comes to that perfect, dry, refreshing rosé. We sampled several local producers.
1. Chateau Sainte Marguerite 2014 Symphony Rosé – A Cru Classe domaine located slightly further south in the Cotes de Provence. This wine was a blend of old vine Grenache and Cinsault. Slightly more floral notes on the nose, stone fruit and hint of the tropics on the palette. 22 €
2. Domaine d’Eole 2014 Rosé Six Cépages – Organically farmed and located 8 miles from St. Remy, this rosé was a blend of 6 difference varietals (Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mouvédre, Counoise, and Carignan). Slightly fuller bodied, it paired nicely with our cheese (my new favorite ash-rined chèvre). 13 €
3. Domaine La Monardiere “Mon” Vin de Pays Rosé – This wine was also organically farmed, and uses indigenous yeasts for natural fermentation. The domaine is located in the Vacqueyras region of the Southern Rhone Valley. A blend of Grenache and Carignan gave it a slightly spicier edge and more savory notes. 8 €
It was fun sampling as local as possible, unfortunately many of these are limited imports, if in the States at all, but any local wine shop will have plenty of rosé to choose from this time of year!
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