Producer
Caves d’Esclans is the brightest new star of the Côtes de Provence. Established in 2006 when Bordeaux-born Sacha Lichine bought the Château d’Esclans, this dynamic producer harnesses both the château- grown grapes and fruit from local growers to create a stunning range of highly sought-after wines. Patrick Léon, the former winemaker at Mouton- Rothschild, oversees production.
Vineyard
The grapes come from specially selected plots at Château d’Esclans, where the estate’s oldest vines grow on south-facing chalky-clay slopes. Harvesting only took place between sunrise and noon to avoid picking in the hottest part of the day.
Winery
The grapes were sorted three times, both electronically and manually, before destemming and a light crushing at 7-8oC. The wine was made from ninety percent free-run juice and ten percent first pressing, and vinified in new and second-fill 600-litre oak barrels for ten months, with twice weekly batonnage.
Taste
Barrel fermentation has produced a rosé with a winning combination of structure and complexity. Aromas of grilled nuts and red berry lead to a generously textured palate and a creamy-citrus finish.
Press
“Offers a mix of lovely nectarine, peach and tangerine hints, with echoes of sandalwood and bergamot carrying through the long, detailed finish. A suave, creamy feel echoes throughout. Very flattering, showing serious range and length..” – 90 points, Wine Spectator, June 2014
Awards
Silver Medal, Decanter World Wine Awards 2014