Coeur Clementine Brut Rose 2012

Coeur Clémentine's rosé is a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and the rare Tibouren grape (an indigenous variety said to bring aromas of garrigue, the herby scrub of southern France). There's also a splash of Syrah. The grapes are sourced from organically managed chalky-clay parcels in the heart of the Côtes de Provence, around the picture-perfect commune of Puget-Ville. Jean-Christophe Audéoud looks after the winemaking, utilizing the traditional direct-press method, followed by maturation in both concrete and stainless steel.

This current release is a pure, crunchy, and flawlessly balanced rosé, laden with citrus pith, redcurrant, and rose petal aromas and flavors. There's a nice fleshy texture along with a racy freshness from going to whoa. It finishes dry, with a twist of white pepper and some gentle grip. With genuine depth and interest, this is a wine to remind us why this part of the world is so renowned for its Rosé wines.