Château Simone’s Palette Blanc 2013 is an emblematic wine from one of Provence’s most distinctive appellations. This white cuvée typically presents an intricate and refined profile, often characterised by a blend of local grape varieties. While the precise blend for this vintage isn’t always disclosed, wines from Palette traditionally incorporate a number of regional varieties such as Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc and sometimes a touch of Muscat or Ugni Blanc, lending complexity and character. The winemaking at Château Simone is known for its pursuit of elegance and longevity, with careful handling and, frequently, some ageing on the lees to enhance texture and depth. The resulting wine from the 2013 vintage is likely to show a harmonious combination of stone fruit and citrus notes, gentle nutty nuances, a savoury mineral streak and vibrant, balanced acidity, all wrapped in a refined, slightly oxidative style that allows for graceful bottle ageing.
The Palette appellation, nestled just east of Aix-en-Provence, is a tiny and historic enclave with a reputation for producing rare and soulful wines. The terroir here is defined by a mosaic of limestone and marl soils that keep yields low and quality high, providing ideal conditions for white grapes to retain freshness and aromatic complexity even in the sun-drenched Provençal climate. The cooling influence of the surrounding pine forests and the special microclimate of Palette further contribute to the distinct temperament of its wines, with a tradition that stretches back for centuries—Château Simone itself being a legendary reference for the region.
For food pairings, this white’s refined structure and subtle complexity make it an excellent partner for Provençal cuisine, such as bourride (a saffron and garlic accented fish stew), grilled sea bass with fennel, or a salad of crab and citrus. It also shines alongside poultry in creamy sauces, veal blanquette, or more simply with mature goat cheese and tapenade toasts, matching beautifully with the herbal and savoury flavours of the south of France.
To enjoy this wine at its best, serve slightly cool but not over-chilled, ideally at 11-13°C. This allows its nuanced bouquet and supple palate to express themselves fully. Decanting for half an hour can further open up its aromatic range, revealing the understated grace for which Château Simone is famed.
