Elie Sumeire Provence Rose 2023

Region: Côtes de Provence, France

Grape Varieties: 60% Grenache, 30% Cinsault & 10% Syrah

So much of the Provence Rosé available comes from flat vineyards where the vines produce a lot of grapes that are machine harvested and processed quickly. While the results are correct they are far from inspiring. Here is an example that breaks the mold, but not the wallet, from a stunning estate located on the Sainte Victoire Mountain. Here Olivier and Sophie Sumeire farm their vines at nearly 800 feet above sea level on limestone soils. The result is an intense example of Rosé that transcends the category.

Serve this wine at 50 degrees and the bouquet is a subtle blend of rhubarb, hibiscus tea, gardenia and pink sea salt. For your initial sip it is sheer at first, then a lovely punch of fruit pops mid palate before the minerality frames the finish. Drink by itself or with a goat cheese and leek tart or salmon canapés.