Mathilde Chapoutier Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire 2025

Mathilde Chapoutier, the eighth generation of the Rhone house, makes this rosé from the Grand Ferrage estate at the foot of the Sainte-Victoire mountain in the Cotes de Provence. The vineyards lie on clay and limestone soils in a sub-zone known for fresher, more mineral rosé, where the cooling influence of the mountain and the Mistral wind keeps the fruit crisp. The grapes, mainly Cinsault with Grenache and Syrah, are direct-pressed to keep the colour pale, then fermented and held for around five months in stainless steel tanks at low temperature. Steel ageing preserves the bright primary fruit and freshness without adding oak flavour, the hallmark of the clean Provence style. The colour is a pale, bright pink. The nose shows fresh strawberry, white peach and a floral, citrus lift, and the palate is dry and crisp, with lively acidity, a light body and a clean, mineral finish. At 13.5% it stays balanced and refreshing. Serve well chilled at 8 to 10 degrees. It works as an aperitif and with grilled fish, summer salads and goat cheese.