If there is one style of wine that’s made for summer drinking, it’s rosé – particularly the perfectly pale, Provençal variety. Adam Holden shines a light on the iconic Whispering Angel, the most famous of Provence’s rosés  

2021 Château d’Esclans, Whispering Angel Rosé, Côtes de Provence  

What’s the story behind the wine? 

Making the most of its idyllic position among the lavender fields north of glitzy St Tropez, Château d’Esclans have been making their iconic rosé Whispering Angel since 2006. Though undeniably chic, the quality here is much more than skin deep, and Whispering Angel has won admirers among both the glitterati and wine critics alike. 

The prestigious Domaines Ott were buying fruit from d’Esclans when it was harvested by machine.  So owner Sacha Lichine was convinced he could make the world’s best rosé here, by introducing rigor at every stage of the process. Born in Margaux, Sacha has been immersed in wine his entire life. Perhaps it was this Bordeaux heritage that encouraged him to hire former Mouton Rothschild winemaker Patrick Léon, who brings attention to detail usually reserved for the world’s finest wines. 

Can you tell us more about the winemaking? 

Meticulous care is taken in the vineyard and winery to ensure the wine’s freshness, purity, and limpid brilliance. The grapes are hand-harvested in the morning, or even at night, avoiding the heat of the day. Then they are further cooled before a painstaking hand-sorting and delicate pressing, followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel. 

How will you be enjoying it this summer? 

A classic blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle, Whispering Angel is the perfect companion for any number of carefree, frivolous summer occasions. But look at little deeper and you’ll see this has more to offer.  

There’s purity, complexity, and a more complete presence on the palate than so many more ordinary pinks. Typically Provençal in its light salmon colour, it brightens the mood whatever the weather when paired with an array of fresh, zesty dishes.  

Do you have any favourite dishes or flavours to pair this with? 

Try simply grilled fish, and salads with Mediterranean elements like tomatoes, lemon, rosemary and thyme, and new season extra virgin olive oil. I promise you a delightful afternoon. 

Buy the 2021 Whispering Angel here