Caves d’Esclans Rock Angel 2024

Chateau d'Esclans in the Cotes de Provence, led by Sacha Lichine, sits at the centre of the modern fine-rosé movement. Rock Angel is its step up from the entry wines, made mainly from Grenache with Rolle and other Provence varieties grown on clay and limestone soils under a warm Mediterranean climate tempered by sea air and altitude, which keeps the fruit fresh. A portion of the wine is fermented and aged in large oak barrels with lees stirring, adding texture and a fine savoury depth, while the rest stays in tank to keep the fruit bright. The two parts are blended for a wine more complex and structured than a simple Provence rosé but still fresh and dry. The colour is a pale, delicate pink. The nose shows ripe strawberry and peach lifted by an exotic hint of mango and citrus, and the palate is dry and rounded, with crisp acidity, a gentle textural weight and a clean, lingering finish. Serve at 9 to 11 degrees. It pairs with grilled fish, roast chicken, summer salads and soft cheeses.