…classic Provençal Rosé

In the summer of 2022, I was able to get back and spend time with Fabrice in the winery, plus walk through the vines of the different parcels of fruit that were to be selected for this articulate rosé cuvée. Fabrice carries on the high standards set at Château Routas and this 2022 rosé cuvée had an added responsibility, being a special year for Château Routas as the winery celebrated 30 years. I have had the pleasure of being involved with Château Routas since my first visit to the estate in 2006. The location and setting are simply stunning, situated at the center of the Côteaux Varois in Provence. Roughly halfway from the French Riviera on the Mediterranean coast and the foothills of the southern Alps and between Marseille and Cannes. Château Routas has a number of vineyards sites, with some among the region's highest, providing cool nights which slows the ripening of the grapes, contributing complexity and shaping harvest times that can be up to a month later than those nearby.
The fruit for this rosé came from selected plots across the estate, chosen for the quality they bring to this quintessential cuvée. Each parcel was destemmed, cooled as required and pressed, with the juice remaining on skins for 12-24 hours in total. After this brief maceration, all of the Syrah and part of the Grenache go into neutral oak barrels for the primary fermentation. The Cinsault and remaining Grenache juice are fermented in stainless steel tanks, with no malolactic fermentation. The different parcels were aged separately for 5-6 months, then carefully blended and rested before bottling.

★ You have a classic onion skin colour, with coral salmon and a tinge of the setting Mediterranean sun. On the elegant nose you have aromas of chilled watermelon, grapefruit skin, lavender and citrus. These characters have a dexterous engagement on the palate and a casual confidence showcasing classic Provençal flavours of watermelon, pink grapefruit, peach skin along with wild strawberries and a signature mineral nuance. The articulate nature and silky textural charm, balanced by a familiar kiss of fruit acidity, result in a refreshing classic dry finish.

This 2022 Château Routas Rouvière Rosé has 13.5% Alc./vol. Crafted in a Classic Dry Style. Chill gently and serve in an aromatic shaped wine glass at 8°- 10°C. *NZ$29.99

CELLARING POTENTIAL: *(Review 16/11/24)
Drinking perfectly this summer season; and will hold nicely for another 12 - 18 months.

FOOD PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Perfect wine pairing with scallops, sushi & sashimi, prawns, salmon gravlax, steamed mussels, lightly seared tuna steaks, plus with a range of lightly seasoned summer salads and with a chilled slice of watermelon - enjoy.