Like many Americans, I have never been convinced that rosé is a “real” wine. I thought of it as a fun beverage that is really only suited for the beach or summer gatherings on the patio, I would have never ordered a rose from a restaurant or served it with dinner. Lucky for me, the Provencial tasting last Wednesday shattered my stereotypes.

The day started as all should, with bubbly. While I have tasted sparkling rose many times, I cannot recall ever having it when it was made saignée style instead of a blend of white and red. Adeline de Barry definitely wins my seal of approval with her sparkling made in the traditional method. It was actually one of the best rose sparklers I have ever had. The wine’s nose did what every Provencial rosé should, its slight saltiness and delicate fruit took me to the south of France and then on the palate it did what every bubbly should, it made me incredibly happy.

After my incredible experience with Chateau de Saint Martin I was immediately drawn to the other dynamic female winemaker in the room, Valerie Rouselle, at Chateau Roubine. Her wines could change the minds of even the most stubborn rosé skeptic. They had all the finesse of a rosé but also had the structure and depth  one expects from a red wine. My favorite was her small project, Inspire. Rouselle beamed as she talked about how she thought it was the best representation of her terroir and indeed, the aromas of soil, pine, and spice gave me a clear picture of where the grapes were grown. I would love to drink this wine on its own or with a seafood bouillabaisse (preferably in the south of France)…

The last table I tasted at was absolutely phenomenal but it was definitely in a different price range than the previous two. Chateau D’Esclans had three different roses ranging from $20 to $60. All three were wonderful but I have to admit their top wine was really special. The delicate herbal nose could not have prepared me for how bold the wine was in the palate. It was a truly delightful wine. If I had $60 to spend on wine I do not know if rosé would be my first choice, but if I had $60 to spend on rosé, this would definitely be it.

Couldn’t make all four trade tastings in Boston this week? Don’t worry, I went for you! Stay tuned to hear all about my local European tour… – RB

Tags: provincial roses, rachel bennett, rose, wine

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