Wines Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence Domaine La Coste - Grand Vin Blanc - 2020

Domaine La Coste’s 2020 Cuvée Grand Vin Blanc, bottled here in magnum, hails from the Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence appellation, a region renowned for producing fresh and expressive white wines. While the precise blend is not detailed, Provence whites are often based around varieties such as Rolle (Vermentino), Grenache Blanc or Clairette, which tend to offer lively citrus, floral and stone fruit notes with a subtle herbal edge. In a vintage like 2020, one can anticipate a wine with fine aromatic clarity and a refreshing mineral backbone, further enhanced by careful vinification designed to preserve purity and finesse. The use of the “Grand Vin” designation suggests this is a selection of particular quality, perhaps from older vines or specific parcels, resulting in greater complexity and length.

The broader region of Provence, and specifically the Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, benefits from a warm Mediterranean climate moderated by cooling winds such as the Mistral. Soils in the area, typically a mix of limestone and clay, favour wines of both freshness and concentration. With a winemaking history that stretches back to ancient times, Provence has cultivated a reputation for elegant, food-friendly whites, though the region is more widely known for its rosés. Nonetheless, the white wines from this area can be real hidden gems—vibrant, nuanced, and enjoyable in their youth or after a couple of years in the bottle.

As for food pairings, this style of Provence white naturally lends itself to Mediterranean fare. Think grilled sea bass with olive oil and herbs, a classic Provençal salade niçoise, or dishes featuring chèvre (goat’s cheese), tomatoes and basil. It is equally at home with fresh shellfish, seafood risotto, or a platter of raw vegetables and tapenade, echoing the freshness and herbal lift in the wine.

To appreciate its aromatic vibrancy and texture, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally between 10-12°C. The larger magnum format will further enhance its ageing potential, but the bright, vivacious character of the 2020 vintage makes it superb for drinking now, particularly as an aperitif or alongside light, summery dishes.