Provence
Provence is a picturesque wine region located in the southeastern part of France, known for its idyllic landscapes, Mediterranean climate, and world-renowned wines. With a winemaking history dating back over 2,600 years, Provence is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in France and is home to a diverse range of grape varieties. From the delicate and refreshing Rosé wines to the full-bodied and complex reds, Provence offers a unique and exciting wine experience for wine enthusiasts and novices alike. In this region, winemakers have long embraced sustainable and organic farming practices, further adding to the region's charm and appeal.
Provence boasts several notable appellations, including Côtes de Provence, Bandol, and Cassis. Côtes de Provence is the largest appellation in the region and is known for its high-quality Rosé wines, while Bandol is famous for its full-bodied and age-worthy reds made from the Mourvèdre grape variety. Cassis is a small appellation located near Marseille and is known for its crisp and refreshing white wines made from the Marsanne and Clairette grape varieties. Some of the leading producers in the region include Château d'Esclans, Domaines Ott, and Château de Pibarnon, all of which are known for their exceptional Rosé wines. Other notable producers include Domaine Tempier and Château Simone, both of which are renowned for their age-worthy reds and whites.
Provence
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Provence | 1 | - | $284.00 | |||||
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The Begude Bandol Rouge 2015 epitomises the distinguished terroir of Bandol, Provence. Crafted by the esteemed Domaine Begude, this vintage is primarily composed of Mourvèdre, complemented by Grenache and Cinsault, meticulously sourced from the region’s finest vineyards. The grapes underwent careful hand harvesting, followed by gentle pressing to preserve their integrity. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, ensuring optimal extraction of flavours while maintaining freshness. Post-fermentation, the wine was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle vanilla and spice nuances without overpowering the fruit character. On the nose, Begude Bandol Rouge 2015 reveals layers of dark berries, plums, and earthy undertones, while the palate is rich and balanced with firm tannins and a long, elegant finish. This exceptional wine showcases the expertise of Domaine Begude and the unique qualities of the Bandol appellation, making it a superb choice for discerning connoisseurs. |
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Provence | 3 | - | $125.00 | |||||
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From the sun-soaked region of Bandol in the South of France comes the Begude Bandol Rouge 2016, a product of meticulous vinification epitomising the mastery of Château de Bégude. Imbued with varietals of Mourvèdre (80%), Grenache, and Cinsault hailing from the estate's prime limestone-clay soils, this fine vintage is aged in French oak barrels for 18 months, yielding a beautiful structure. The result is an intensely expressive wine, boasting a robust crimson hue and elegant aromas of dark fruit, spice and vanilla. Seductive blackberry, blackcurrant, earthy tones, and sophisticated tannic richness dance on the palate, leading to a long and graceful finish. Warm and full-bodied, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2016 perfectly encapsulates the Provençal terroir while reflecting the esteemed winemaking savoir-faire of the Tari family — one of Bandol's most respected wine producers. A compelling addition to any collection, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2016 is a testament to the noble virtues of Bandol winemaking. |
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Provence | 2 | - | $245.00 | |||||
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Esteemed by experts and wine enthusiasts alike, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 is a luxurious expression of the prestigious Bandol region in France. The vineyard, Domaine de la Bégude, occupies a covetable area at the highest point of this appellation, ennobling it with remarkable terroir characteristics. This inimitable blend is dominated by Mourvedre, a grape grown for its formidable structure and intensity. Complemented with Grenache and Cinsault, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 rewards the palate with intriguing notes of black berries and spices. Renowned for their sustainable viticulture ethos and meticulous hand-harvesting, the Tari family, custodians of Domaine de la Bégude, achieve a wine of profound complexity and excellent ageing potential. Sticklers for organic practices and limited intervention winemaking, the wine’s vibrant expression of fruit is undeniable. Trust the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 to enchant with its dark intensity and captivating complexity. A hallmark of French artisanal winemaking. |
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Provence | 10 | - | $237.00 | |||||
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Esteemed by experts and wine enthusiasts alike, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 is a luxurious expression of the prestigious Bandol region in France. The vineyard, Domaine de la Bégude, occupies a covetable area at the highest point of this appellation, ennobling it with remarkable terroir characteristics. This inimitable blend is dominated by Mourvedre, a grape grown for its formidable structure and intensity. Complemented with Grenache and Cinsault, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 rewards the palate with intriguing notes of black berries and spices. Renowned for their sustainable viticulture ethos and meticulous hand-harvesting, the Tari family, custodians of Domaine de la Bégude, achieve a wine of profound complexity and excellent ageing potential. Sticklers for organic practices and limited intervention winemaking, the wine’s vibrant expression of fruit is undeniable. Trust the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 to enchant with its dark intensity and captivating complexity. A hallmark of French artisanal winemaking. |
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Provence | 1 | - | $153.00 | |||||
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Experience the elegance and charm of Chateau Favori Coteaux Varois en Provence 2019. Crafted in the heart of Provence by Chateau Favori, renowned for their unabashed pursuit of quality and sophistication, this wine truly embodies the spirit of French winemaking. A vibrant and energetic Rosé, it has been expertly composed with a sleek blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah. The grapes were hand-picked from vineyards flanked by limestone mountains, creating a distinct terroir. This wine spent six months in stainless steel vats, resulting in a delightful balance of freshness and structure. Chateau Favori Coteaux Varois en Provence 2019 seduces the palate with an enchanting array of red fruits, citrus and a touch of spice, framed beautifully by a thread of minerality. A perfect companion for refined cuisine, this wine is a captivating testament to Chateau Favori's dedication to creating exquisite Provencal wines. |
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Provence | 1 | 91 (JS) | $114.00 | |||||
James Suckling (91)Very pale apricot color with aromas of peaches, sliced apples, jasmine, wet stones and watermelon. It's medium-bodied with bright acidity and succulent layers of ripe fruit. Juicy and packed with flavor, yet fresh and elegant. From organically grown grapes. Drink now. |
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Provence | 1 | 94 (VN) | $205.00 | |||||
Vinous (94)Light, bright orange. Smoke- and mineral-accented red berries, citrus fruits, vanilla and rose pastille on the highly expressive and expansive nose. Juicy and seamless on the palate, offering deeply concentrated, velvety raspberry liqueur, tangerine and vanilla bean flavors that show superb clarity and powerful thrust. Rich yet almost shockingly lithe in character, delivering strong, mineral-driven finishing cut and a lingering suggestion of candied flowers. This wine really transcends the category of pink wine and it resembles a serious white Burgundy, perhaps a Meursault, in terms of body and texture. |
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Provence | 1 | 20+ (MJ) | $650.00 | |||||
Matthew Jukes (20+)Garrus is always awesome and, every so often, it is completely unpredictable. The 2019s from Château d’Esclans are sublime and Garrus ought to be the most obviously masculine and imposing in the portfolio but, strangely, I felt that the perfume and the initial attack was positively gentle and come-hither in its composure and allure. So, I did what any right-minded person would do and relaxed into another sip. I then realised that I had been tricked! Garrus is as structured and proud as ever and yet it is sporting a kindly disguise to lull you into a false sense of security. Many will drink this wine too early, fooled by the glossiness and initial enchantment on offer. But they will soon realise that this wine’s finish is firm and unyielding, pointing to a long and graceful life - as long as you have the patience. This is a sensational vintage for Garrus and I rate it as highly as the epic 2015 and that means that this is a perfect 20/20 in my notes. Nothing comes close in 2019 (apart from its sibling, Les Clans – you can find a write-up on this wine on this website) and I have tasted hundreds of bottles. The difference between this wine and the 2015 is the ’15 was very obviously statuesque with amazing flanks and bold musculature. By contrast, this 2019 is subtle, brooding, complex and intricately perfumed. While the nose is cool and soothing, the palate is a veritable iceberg of power and equilibrium and while we can only sense the scale of grandeur of this wine, the signposts on the surface are already devastatingly attractive. You simply must buy and keep this wine for at least twelve months before you pop a cork! 20+/20 |
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Provence | 4 | 93 (JS) | $191.00 | |||||
James Suckling (93)A very pure and incisive nose, with refined mineral chalkiness to the fresh strawberry and grapefruit aromas. Again, pure is the word to describe the linear, dry palate, which delivers crisp yet textured acidity, together with elegant, freshly chopped raspberries and strawberries. A truly outstanding rosé here! Drink now. |
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Provence | 4 | - | $127.00 | |||||
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Experience the exquisite allure of d'Esclans The Pale Rose by Sacha Lichine Var 2021, a masterful creation from the internationally recognised winemaker Sacha Lichine. Born in the coveted vineyards of Côtes de Provence, this fine wine offers a tantalising blend of Grenache and Rolle, creating a sophisticated balance of crisp, refreshing notes. Carefully produced under Lichine's veteran eye, this rosé boasts a gentle strawberry hue and a delicate, refined palate hinting at a blend of savoury spices, red fruits, and minerals. The d'Esclans The Pale Rose by Sacha Lichine Var 2021 is an epitome of Provencal elegance, skilfully vinified, and aged in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve its complex aromatics and nuance. Sacha Lichine's dedication to maintaining traditional winemaking practices while innovating with modern techniques shines through in this exceptional vintage. A quintessential choice for any discerning wine enthusiast seeking unparalleled taste, aroma, and quality. |
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Provence | 1 | - | $127.00 | |||||
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Crafted by the prolific Sacha Lichine, d'Esclans The Pale Rose by Sacha Lichine Var 2023 epitomises the elegant complexity of high-class French Rosé. Hailing from the esteemed vineyards of Domaines Sacha Lichine in Provence, this visionary wine mesmerises with an alluring palette of ripe peach and crisp apple, underlined with a subtle hint of minerality. Renowned for its distinctive pale hue, The Pale Rose exemplifies rigorous vinification processes, combining the free-run juice of Grenache and Vermentino grapes. Each varietal, meticulously hand-harvested under the distinctive Mediterranean sun, adds a unique layer to this extraordinary blend. The end result is a delightfully fresh and balanced Rosé, encapsulating the flawless terroir from which it originates. d'Esclans The Pale Rose by Sacha Lichine Var 2023 affirms Lichine's status as one of the true luminaries of the wine industry, delivering a sophisticated rose with an unrivalled depth of flavour. |
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Provence | 1 | 92 (JS) | $462.00 | |||||
James Suckling (92)Very pale apricot-pink color. Delicate aromas of sliced apple, pink grapefruit, peach, cream and stones follow through to a medium body and crisp acidity. Deliciously creamy and smooth. Drink and enjoy. |
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Provence | 1 | 92 (JS) | $158.00 | |||||
James Suckling (92)Very pale apricot-pink color. Delicate aromas of sliced apple, pink grapefruit, peach, cream and stones follow through to a medium body and crisp acidity. Deliciously creamy and smooth. Drink and enjoy. |
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Provence | 2 | 92 (JS) | $139.00 | |||||
James Suckling (92)Pale rose color with pretty aromas of lavender, rosehip, strawberries, cherries and cloves. It’s medium-bodied with crisp acidity and a supple, creamy palate. Perfumed and elegant. Drink now. |
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