2016 Domaine Camaïssette “L’Aurélienne” Rosé, Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence DOP, France

The Wine of the Week with Annette Tomei

The southeastern reaches of France are almost synonymous with rosé. The Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence appellation may include reds and whites, but it is best known for eclectic blended rosés. The grapes of the nearby Rhone region are well represented here – Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, Carignan, and Counoise, as well as a bit of Cabernet Sauvignon for good measure.

Domaine Camaïssette has been producing wines near Aix-en-Provence for four generations. The grapes for their rosé, L’Aurélienne, are certified organic. The particular blend for this rosé from Provence is made up of 50% Syrah, 25% CS, 25% Grenache, and contains 13% ABV.

About this Wine

The color of a wine is always an important indicator, but maybe more so with rosés.  Often the particular shade of pink belies certain flavor characteristics… more blue-pink, higher acidity more orange-pink, less acidity. This particular shade – a sexy salmony-pink seems to say “just right.” The aromatics of this rosé from Provence are gracious but not shy – guava and ripe strawberries, white pepper and fresh herbs. It is medium body, super juicy, and the flavors convey a nice balance between floral, peach, lychee, fresh berries, and clean minerality.

The soft silkiness of this wine make it easy to enjoy alone, and just as easy to enjoy with simple snacks and small bites. I’d recommend fresh cheeses with delicate flavors, sushi and sashimi, simply prepared vegetable dishes, poached or pan roasted seafood preparations… avoid vinegary dressings, stick with citrus and olive oil, fresh herbs.

The Verdict

For all you rosé lovers out there, this rosé from Provence is an easy wine to love. It’s also an easy one to share with fussier rosé drinkers because of its softness and approachability. The 2016 vintage is nearing its end, but the 2017 should be out by spring and I’m looking forward to stocking up!