Pretty and Pink: A Rosé Made in Provençal Wine Country

Raise a glass to (of) Château Calisanne – jewel of the Coteaux d’Aix – a rosé made in archtypal Provençal wine country, the commune of Lançon-Provence in the Bouches-du-Rhône to be precise. This cradle of prehistory, near the famed Roman route Via Aurélia was, legend has it, the birthplace of the almond-based calisson (the hillside was once planted with almond trees).

It is here, beneath the imposing cliff that protects the vines from unforgiving Mistral winds, that grapes from ancient vines – 110 ha of them in AOP Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence – are manually harvested at dawn in order to preserve the freshness of the fruit.

This is done today under the knowledgeable gaze of of vigneron Sophie Kessler-Matière, who brings her vision and signature to the Calisson rosé 2020.

A blend of 45% Grenache, 30% Cinsault Cinsault, 15% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre and pretty pale pink in colour, it offers a nose with floral aromas and notes of citrus fruits. Subtle and delicate as an aperitif, served with cured hams or Italian grilled vegetables. Or with a basil and red fruit dessert. Tchin!

Priced from €13.90 on calissanneboutique.fr (where you can also buy fine olive oils)

From France Today magazine