Wines Alpilles Domaine Mas de la Dame - 2023

Viniou Reviews

The Domaine Mas de la Dame 2023 Rosé from the Alpilles IGP is a charming example of southern French rosé, capturing the essence of its sun-kissed terroir. Produced using traditional southern varietals commonly found in Provence and the Rhône—though the precise grapes are not listed, blends from this area often include Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre—this dry rosé is distinguished by its vibrant, pale salmon-pink hue and an inviting freshness. 2023 was a relatively cool year in some parts of southern France, resulting in wines with great aromatic clarity and brisk acidity. Careful temperature-controlled vinification preserves delicate fruit aromatics and lends the wine its lively, youthful character.

Nestled in the heart of the Alpilles, the Domaine Mas de la Dame is enveloped by rugged limestone hills and aromatic garrigue. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, moderated by the Mistral wind that helps maintain vine health. The stony, well-drained limestone and clay soils are ideal for low-yielding vines, which often give rise to wines with precision and finesse. The historical heritage of the Alpilles, stretching back to ancient times, imbues the local winemaking culture with a unique sense of place, making wines such as this rosé expressive of their landscape and tradition.

When it comes to food pairing, the crisp, mouth-watering style of this rosé makes it a delightful partner for summer fare. Enjoy it with Provençal classics like ratatouille, salade niçoise, grilled sardines, or a tapenade-topped crostini. Its vibrant acidity and delicate fruit notes also pair beautifully with fresh seafood, light Mediterranean salads, or marinated chicken skewers, making it a versatile choice for alfresco dining.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this rosé well-chilled at 8-10°C to highlight its liveliness and fresh fruit. Best enjoyed in its youth, within a year or two of release, to capture its most expressive flavours and fragrant bouquet.