2023 Chene Bleu Le Rose, Rhone Valley

Chêne Bleu Le Rosé from the Rhône Valley is a beautifully crafted and quietly luxurious wine that has become a favourite among enthusiasts who love Provence style elegance with a little more depth and complexity. The estate sits high in the hills of the Dentelles de Montmirail, straddling the boundary between the Rhône and Provence, giving the vineyards exceptional altitude, biodiversity, and freshness. This unique setting, combined with meticulous organic and biodynamic farming, allows the grapes to ripen slowly and develop wonderfully precise flavours.

The blend brings together Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault from low yielding vines grown on limestone and clay soils. The grapes are picked by hand, gently pressed, and fermented at cool temperatures to preserve purity. A portion of the wine spends time on lees to build texture and aromatic complexity, giving the rosé a subtle richness beneath its shimmering freshness.

In the glass it shows a pale, luminous salmon colour. The aroma is refined and expressive, offering wild strawberry, white peach, grapefruit zest, and hints of spring flowers and crushed stone. The palate is crisp and beautifully balanced, showing red berries, citrus, and a touch of savoury herb with a fine mineral backbone. The finish is long and dry, with a gentle creaminess that adds sophistication without heaviness.

It pairs wonderfully with seafood, charcuterie, grilled vegetables, salads with herbs and citrus, or Mediterranean dishes. It is superb as an aperitif but also has the structure to hold up at the table. Best enjoyed young, though it will develop nicely over the next couple of years.