Over recent decades, rosé consumption in Australia has experienced a major shift, morphing from sweet, rich and confected expressions to extremely dry and linear, more often than not modelled around the Provence style and production methods.
To be legally bottled as an A.O.C Côtes de Provence wine, it must feature less than four grams of residual sugar, have an abv of at least 11%, and be primarily made from Cinsault, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Tibouren. Additionally, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, Clairette, Semillon, Ugni Blanc, Vermentino (Rolle) are also permitted in limited quantities.
AIX Vin de Provence 2023
Region: Coteaux D’aix En Provence
Appearance: Pale salmon-pink with a youthful vibrancy.
Nose: Red summer fruits; strawberries and raspberries and white peach. Some aromas of herbs and a touch of citrus.
Palate: Fresh and lively, juicy watermelon, and pink grapefruit. Medium body with crisp acidity and subtle minerality.
Finish: Clean and refreshing, with citrus and a faint saline edge.
Notes: A quintessential Provence rosé that captures the essence of the region with its elegance, freshness, and approachable style.
Who’s it for: A great (and classic) premium rosé SKU to have in store - a light, fresh, and elegant style that also displays quite a lot of complexity and interest. Very more-ish.
ABV: 13%
RRP: $30
Owner/distributor: Mezzanine Wine
Roseblood 1489 D’Estoublon 2023
Region: Vin de Provence
Appearance: A luminous, pale coral-pink.
Nose: Fresh red berries, white peach, nectarine, and a hint of fresh thyme. Greater depth and complexity.
Palate: Exquisitely balanced and textured, showcasing layers of ripe red fruits, zesty citrus, and stone fruits. Mouthfeel is creamy, balanced with vibrant acidity and a gentle minerality.
Finish: Long and expressive, with lingering blood orange and subtle salinity. A touch of spice.
Notes: More expensive and more in every department. Its complexity, elegance, and finesse make it a standout.
Who’s it for: A very premium rosé that definitely has a lot to offer - quite distinct and perhaps less approachable than the other two rosés tasted, suiting this to those looking for a unique wine experience. However, those looking for a casual sipper might be a little disappointed.
ABV: 14%
RRP: $90
Owner/distributor: House of Fine Wine
Roseblood D’Estoublon 2023
Region: Vin de Provence
Appearance: A delicate, pale blush pink.
Nose: Refined and aromatic, with enticing notes of wild strawberries, red currants, and ripe peaches. Opens up to orange blossom.
Palate: Silky and well-structured, offering a balanced interplay of juicy red fruit flavors.
Finish: Long with lingering notes of zesty grapefruit, white flowers, and a hint of saline minerality.
Notes: Elegance, layered flavors.
Who’s it for: A new arrival to Australia with an interesting story (Co-Founded by Carla Bruni) and a classic Provence profile.
ABV: 12.5%
RRP: $45
Owner/distributor: House of Fine Wine
//
Many Australian rosé winemakers believe that there is opportunity in expanding beyond the crisp and lean style made popular by Provence.
“As an industry, I think we need to talk a little bit more to the restaurants and pubs and groups and try and steer them away from the Provence style and show them what we can do here in Australia,” said Mike de Iuliis, Winemaker and Owner of Iuliis Wines, Hunter Valley.
“I think there is still like a we’ve got to have two rosés from Provence and we'll throw in an Aussie one [attitude] and then they go… the Aussie ones they only sell one bottle for every three or four of the Provence one.”
Here’s our thoughts on three recent Provence rosés to cross our desks:
Share the content
