Château d'Esclans Les Clans Rosé, Côtes de Provence 2021

Chateau d'Esclans are renowned for producing superior, lightly coloured, Provence rosés and for taking this particular popular style of rosé onto the next level. The grapes for Les Clans come from some of the best parcels of old vines, are fermented in large oak barrels and undergo a Burgundian style winemaking process whereby the lees are stirred twice weekly for 10 months. This process adds weight, richness and complexity. Dry with dense and rich fruit, vibrant, crisp acidity, flavours of nectarines, peach and redcurrant, a creamy texture and a very long finish.

Highly versatile, like many a good wine, this rosé is ideal with food like fish and white meats.

Situated in the cool hills in the heart of Provence, Château d'Esclans has been something of a phenomenon in the years since it was acquired by Sacha Lichine in 2006. He set out to create a world-class brand with the aim of producing great rosé; something he's certainly succeeded at doing. While their Whispering Angel Rosé has become the talk of wine world, it's just one of an extensive array of premium labels. Their elevated vineyards are most famous for old-vine Grenache, much of which was planted in the early part of the 20th century. In making their wines these vines are hand-picked as close to sunrise as possible and blended with equally cared for Vermentino. The top cuvées are then oak aged and capable of aging and improving for years. Such has been their success that the luxury goods company LMVH acquired a 55% stake in the business in 2019 and so it's joined an impressive label of prestige drinks brands alongside the likes of Krug, Dom Pérignon, Château d’Yquem and Cheval Blanc.