Cuisineist Wine Review: France : Provence : Rose' Wine

Summer is here and so is Bastille Day. The best way to celebrate with our French compatriots the turning point in the French Revolution is a nice crisp Rose wine. We tasted our way through France and found the Commanderie de Peyrassol’s Cuvée de la Commanderie, a bright Rose from the Provence region.

This Commanderie de Peyrassol is from a 700-hundred-year-old estate founded by the Knights Templar and draws on a long-documented history and masterful winemaking making this Rose a real stand out.

Taking a detailed look at the wine, it features a classic blend of grapes, Cinsault-dominant, but softened with a touch of Mourvèdre and is a brilliant example of a Provençal style Rose. On the palate the well-balanced acidity makes it an excellent complement to many summer dishes from escargot to even hamburgers on the grill.

At the winery, the grapes were harvested separately during the night when temperatures are coolest, then de-stemmed and pressed. After fermentation they were aged in stainless steel vats, producing a delightful, exciting wine.

In the glass, it  grabs your attention with its light rosy appearance. On the nose, wild berries: gooseberry and raspberry jump out of the glass, confirmed on a palate that is crisp, silky and enhanced with an elegant touch of minerality. Cuvée de la Commanderie is an ideal aperitif, to accompany tapas, but also goes well with all varieties of grilled fish, beef tartare and fresh berry desserts. Enjoy this star from Provence all summer long.