Description
Beaulieu, located in Rognes in Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence. The estate comprises 180 hectares of vines which lie at an altitude of 400 metres, in the heart of an ancient volcanic crater. The vineyard land had been farmed in the area since Roman times, although the Château itself was built as a stronghold for the French King Henry III in 1576. Today, the estate is run by the Jeanjean family, who co-own Mas la Chevalière (in the South of France) and Domaine Laroche (Chablis) with Michel Laroche.
Vineyards
Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence lies west along the Mediterranean coast from the Côtes de Provence appellation. The sunny, dry, Mediterranean climate ensures ripe, fruit-driven wines. The sea breezes moderate the hot, drying influence of the Mistral, which blows from the North; this means that the vines are not stressed, the balance is better and the wine retains freshness and aroma alongside the fruit.
Vinification
The grapes were pressed and fermented in the same way as a white wine (rather than using the 'saignée' method of drawing off part of a red wine early in the fermentation). This minimised the extraction of harsh phenolics, and has led to a more delicate style of rosé with a fine textured finish.
Tasting Notes
Brilliantly clear salmon pink. Abound with redcurrant and wild strawberry perfumes that develop into juicy white peach and pear notes. On the palate, fresh acidity is balanced beautifully with the alchohol, giving an elegant mouthfeel and refreshing length.
Vintage Information
Grape varieties | 40% Grenache/Garnacha 25% Cabernet Sauvignon 20% Syrah/Shiraz 10% Cinsault 5% Mourvedre |
Region | Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, Provence |
Winemaker | Guillaume Cordonis |
Alcohol (ABV) | 13% |
Acidity | 6.77g/l |
Residual Sugar | 0.7g/l |
Wine pH | 3.22 |