The Pale

Pale pink like the dawn over the Maures mountains — The Pale from Château d'Esclans is the wine that helped shape the global image of Provence rosé.

Sacha Lichine bought Château d'Esclans in 2006 in the Var, the heart of Provence, and made it the reference address for dry, elegant rosés. The Pale is the entry into his line — vinified cellar-fresh, with the goal of a fine, creamy texture while maintaining a restrained color. The main grape variety is Grenache, supplemented by Rolle (Vermentino), which gives the wine freshness and aromatic depth.

In the glass, it shows a delicate salmon color. The nose is fine: white peach skin, citrus blossom, a hint of dry herbs of the garrigue. On the palate, light body, lively acidity, a silky mouthfeel that is typical for Provence rosés of this class. The finish is short to medium-long, dry, and fresh.

• Food: Grilled vegetables, goat cheese, bouillabaisse, light pasta with seafood
• Temperature: 10–12 °C