Domaine Saint Andrieu L’Oratoire Rose AOP Coteaux Varois en Provence 2016 Magnum $55.00

In the hills of the Provence countryside, near Brignoles, in the small village of Correns, the Domaine Saint Andrieu was acquired in 2003 by Jean-Paul and Nancy Bignon, owners of Chateau Talbot, cru-classe de Saint Julien in Medoc. Bordered by the foothills of the Alps, the Domaine offers a majestic landscape in a countryside protected from urban planning and completely intact. A paradise for many plant and animal species, the area also has many wine-growing assets, such as numerous springs including the eponymous Saint Andrieu spring, and an elevation which reaches 380m with a continental-like micro climate. Vineyards grow on 26 hectares, with plots spread out over plateaus forming terraces selected for the quality of the soil, which is composed primarily of clay on limestone. 1500mL

Grenache 40%, Cinsault 25%, Syrah 25%, Rolle 10%

“Redcurrant and rosehip, with a dusting of pepper and fennel. It’s soft and well balanced, with plump fruit but no real sweetness to talk of. There’s a light airbrush of fine powdery texture, even acidity, and a soft and well-formed finish. It’s very enjoyable.” – 92 Points, Gary Walsh, Winefront.

“Medium to light salmon-pink hue. Richer bouquet with some red fruits, smoky toasty barrel suggestions, perhaps, and a hint of spice. Complex and very good, the same in the mouth, where it has some richness and more depth than most of its kind. The finish is moderately long-lasting and satisfying. Excellent wine.” – 91 Points, Huon Hooke