Rock Angel is another iconic rosé from Caves d’Esclans, the estate that brought you Whispering Angel and the phenomenal Garrus. Stylistically, Rock Angel sits between those two great wines. It’s made by Bertrand Léon, who took over from his father Patrick Léon, the former winemaker at Château Mouton Rothschild. The grapes come from old vines in La Motte en Provence, these are partly fermented in stainless steel and partly in oak barrels, the latter adding texture, body and great roundness. Tangy redcurrant and wild strawberry mingle with lemon cream, toasted almonds, refreshing pink grapefruit, nectarine and a pinch of black pepper. The additional weight and elegance make this a fabulous food wine, so drink it as an aperitif with nibbles, or alongside seafood, grilled artichokes, poached salmon or barbeques. However, just like the other wines from Caves d’Esclans, all Rock Angel really needs is sunshine.
The history of the blue-shuttered and hydrangea-surrounded Château d’Esclans dates back to the 12th Century, but Sacha Lichine of the famous Bordeaux family revolutionised the estate in 2006 when he turned the focus on to premium rosé. Now its monumental Provence rosés are household names and quite simply must-haves.
