Caves d’Esclans The Pale Rosé 2025

Caves d'Esclans was acquired by Sacha Lichine in 2006 with the aim of making the finest rosés in Provence, and The Pale sits at the approachable end of that range. It is a blend of Cinsault, Grenache, Rolle and Syrah grown in the Var, in the heart of Provence, under the warm, dry Mediterranean climate that defines the region. The grapes are pressed gently to extract minimal colour, then fermented and held in stainless steel for around eight months, a reductive approach that preserves delicate aromatics and the signature pale hue rather than adding oak. The colour is exceedingly pale, a barely there salmon pink. The nose is fresh and precise, with white peach, red berries, citrus peel and white flowers. The palate is dry and crisp, light bodied with bright acidity and a touch of melon and saline minerality on a clean finish. This is rosé built for freshness and easy drinking rather than weight. Serve well chilled at around 8 to 10 degrees. It makes a fine aperitif and suits shellfish, salads and grilled white fish.