The latest vintage of our Own Selection Provence rosé is here, made for us by Ch. la Mascaronne. Catriona Felstead, our Senior Buyer, takes a closer look at a delicious summer-friendly wine.  

2020 Berry Bros. & Rudd Provence rosé

What is it? 

Our own-label Provence rosé is a dry, pale pink wine made from a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Rolle (the local name for Vermentino). It is made for us by Ch. la Mascaronne. This is an estate with an excellent reputation, not only for high quality but for its ownership. It was first established in 1999 by the then-owner of another very well-known Provence château, Miraval (before it was acquired by Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie). It remained in the same ownership until last year when it was acquired by Michel Reybier, owner of the very famous Cos d’Estournel of Bordeaux, whose purchase has drawn attention to the quality of this estate. 

Why’s it different? 

Ch. la Mascaronne is unusual in Provence in that all the wine they make, including our rosé, is made from their own estate-grown fruit. They don’t buy in wine from other growers, meaning they have complete control over the growing conditions of the grapes, and therefore the quality and style of fruit that goes into their wines. Theirs is, ultimately, a terroir wine in a way that many Provence rosés are not. They are also unusual in that their vineyards lie at 300m altitude, unlike the majority of Provence vineyards, which lie mostly at sea level. This altitude creates a cooler microclimate which allows an even ripening of the grapes and preserves a wonderful freshness in the final wine. 

What about its flavour profile? 

The first taste brings to mind the sensation of biting into a fresh red plum. Its pale colour belies the vivid aromas and flavours of wild strawberries, raspberries and redcurrants that follow. It’s dry and very mineral; energetic, pure and fresh with a long, creamy finish.  

What should I eat it with?  

It’s lovely on its own but also works extremely well with a multitude of al fresco dishes such as grilled prawns and chicken salads – and it also copes unexpectedly well with strong flavours such as paprika or garlic. It’s very versatile! 

Shop our Own Selection Provence rosé here.