2022 Caves d'Esclans Rock Angel Rose, Cotes de Provence

As distinguished as it is refined, the Rock Angel cuvée is an exceptional rosé. Produced at Château d'Esclans, a property built in the 19th century that became the property of Sacha Lichine, who continues to operate it even after its acquisition by the Moet Hennessy group in 2019. Vinified with as much care as for the great white wines, this exceptional rosé wine stands out among the prestigious rosés. It is a wine with incredible charm that has the ability to transform any occasion into an event imbued with class and romance. Its nose of great purity reveals aromas of strawberries, redcurrants, raspberries, peaches and citrus fruits, all enriched with saline and chalky notes that add an exceptional mineral dimension. Fresh, nervous and incisive, this Rock Angel is certainly a great seducer.

93 points fidelesdebacchus.com

Complex nose of cherry, stone fruit and a mineral edge. Lush white peach, tangy mandarin and scrub herb palate, with lovely weight and silkiness.

92 points decanter.com

Fans of the hugely popular Whispering Angel may not even realise that producer, Château d’Esclans, makes a whole range of rosé wines costing up to £100 per bottle. This will set you back a bit more than Whispering Angel, but to that wines dry, red-fruited charm and purity, it adds a mineral intensity. There's also a subtle creamy and full texture, partly from fermentation in French oak, in a wine that is Whispering Angel's older sibling, showing that much more gravitas. A delicious rosé and gastronomic too, eat with salmon prepared however your prefer or creamy mushroom pasta or risotto.

92 points Tom Canavan wine-pages.com

Caves d'Esclans Rock Angel Rosé from Côtes de Provence is a bold yet elegant take on Provençal rosé, crafted by the renowned Sacha Lichine and winemaker Bertrand Léon. Positioned as the more serious, structured sibling to Whispering Angel, Rock Angel offers more depth, complexity, and ageability while retaining the vibrant freshness that defines the region’s finest rosés.

Pale, almost translucent pink in the glass, this rosé immediately captivates with aromas of ripe white peach, wild strawberry, and red currant, layered with delicate hints of rose petal, citrus zest, and a touch of wet stone. The palate is where Rock Angel truly shines—crisp and refreshing yet wonderfully textured, with flavors of pink grapefruit, nectarine, and a subtle saline minerality. Partial fermentation in oak adds a creamy mouthfeel and gentle spice without overpowering the fruit. The finish is long, clean, and sophisticated, leaving a whisper of citrus and crushed herbs.

This rosé pairs beautifully with grilled prawns, seared tuna, or a classic Niçoise salad. It also complements roast chicken, creamy burrata with heirloom tomatoes, and Mediterranean vegetable dishes. While delightful when served chilled on a sunny afternoon, Rock Angel has the structure to age gracefully for 2–3 years, developing more savory complexity while maintaining its vibrant core.

Under the expert guidance of Sacha Lichine and Bertrand Léon, Caves d'Esclans Rock Angel Rosé delivers the perfect balance of elegance and power, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy their rosé with a little more edge.