Wines Côtes de Provence Château Saint-Maur - L'Excellence Côtes de Provence Rosé - 2019

Château Saint-Maur’s Cuvée L'Excellence 2019 is a rosé originating from the renowned Côtes de Provence appellation, presented here in the prestigious jeroboam format. While the precise blend isn’t specified, the style typical of Côtes de Provence rosés often highlights freshness, elegance and subtlety, generally crafted from various proportions of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah or Mourvèdre. The 2019 vintage benefited from a sunny, Mediterranean climate, allowing for slow and optimal ripening of the grapes. Winemaking traditions in the region focus on gentle pressing and cool fermentation to preserve delicate aromas, resulting in a wine with a pale, luminous hue, expressive freshness, and nuanced notes that may evoke white peach, redcurrant, citrus zest and a gentle floral undertone.

The Provence region, nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and rolling uplands, enjoys a climate characterised by plentiful sunshine, mild winters, and cooling Mistral winds that help protect the vines from disease. The soils are varied, with limestone, schist and clay lending complexity and minerality to the wines produced here. Viticulture dates back to ancient times, with Provence being one of the oldest wine-producing areas in France, famed above all for its rosé wines which account for the vast majority of production.

Pairing Château Saint-Maur’s Cuvée L'Excellence Rosé is a delight, thanks to its versatility and refined style. This wine harmonises beautifully with Provençal classics such as salade niçoise, grilled Mediterranean vegetables, or a delicate bouillabaisse. Its elegant acidity and subtle fruit also complement fresh seafood, sushi, or a summer tart with goat’s cheese and herbs. For a local touch, a dish of tapenade with crusty bread makes a perfect apéritif.

For the best tasting experience, serve this rosé well-chilled, ideally between 8 and 10°C. In the large-format jeroboam, be sure to allow a little time for the wine to settle and show its full aromatic profile after opening. Enjoy it in good company, preferably on a warm day to echo the sun-drenched character of Provence.