From: Bandol, Provence, France
Varietal: Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault
Tasting Notes: Bandol rose often has wonderful structure because of its inclusion of Mourvèdre, and this is no exception. Beautifully floral with notes of fennel and underbrush. It is elegant and smooth, a perfect example of Bandol rose.
Pairing: This would be lovely with dishes containing spice, but also with seafood, particularly fish. It is bold enough to be enjoyed throughout the winter months, but transitions wonderfully to spring and summer as well.
From the importer: Château Sainte Anne is a 15 hectare estate located in Bandol, one of the top Appellations of Provence. The Domaine is now managed by Françoise Dutheil and her son Jean-Baptiste. In addition to pioneering the Bandol appellation 5 generations ago, Château St. Anne has also been at the forefront of natural winemaking. They have worked closely with Thierry Puzelat, Pierre Overnoy, and Gramenon since the 1970s and were one of the founding members of the Association des Vins Naturels (AVN). Château Sainte Anne’s Bandol terroir is unique among the Provence wines. The proximity to the sea and strong winds between the steep hills have created a micro-climate that makes it possible to plant and grow on terraces in spite of the punishing summer heat. This is why Mourvedre, a variety that struggles to ripen elsewhere, is at home here in Bandol. Château Sainte Anne produces reds, white, and rose (20% of the production). All the wines are fermented naturally in stainless steel vat and the reds are aged in oak for a very long time. 2g/hl of sulfur added at bottling.