While rosé is often equated with sunny, summer afternoons it can add a touch of something special during the festive season too.
After all, a bottle of rosé is most definitely stylish enough for a Christmas occasion, making it an ideal gift, but it can also be paired with all sorts of dishes that we tend to enjoy at this time of year. Think seafood, cured meats and cheeses - and, yes, your traditional Christmas dinner!
Whether you’re a devoted rosé fan all year round or are simply keen to try it outside of the summer season, it’s worth looking for a wine from the south of France.
The region is home to some of the world’s best-loved rosé wines, and the renowned Château d’Esclans in Provence offers a number of beautiful wines.
Instagram @thewhisperingangel
Château d’Esclans is known for its old Grenache vines - which produce grapes with a greater concentration of flavour - as well as Vermentino, Cinsault, Merlot, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Tibouren grapes. The estate is also known for its barrel fermentation approach that teams traditional form with modern function.
These building blocks have enabled winemaker Sacha Lichine and his team to create an enviable portfolio of rosés. In fact, you could say that they are responsible for what’s become known as the rosé renaissance of recent years.
Whispering Angel
In 2006 Château d’Esclans introduced the world to Whispering Angel (RRP €26), a renowned rosé that is one of the best-known and enjoyed in the world. Extremely drinkable, Whispering Angel must also be one of the most Instagrammed wines ever, making it quite a star this Christmas.
Rock Angel
Offering a more complex and structured taste profile than Whispering Angel, the premium Rock Angel rosé (RRP €40.90) is another of the estate’s gems. It works beautifully as an aperitif and can be paired with a broad range of fine cuisine.
Chateau d’Esclans
For something a little special, and what better time to splash out than at Christmas?, there is the Château d'Esclans Collection, It includes the namesake Chateau d'Esclans (RRP €45), the Chateau Les Clans (€72.70) and Garrus (RRP €122.90).
Whether you're seeking a gift for someone special, or the perfect wine to serve friends and family at a festive gathering this Christmas, a bottle of rosé from the estate of Chateau d'Esclans is sure to bring a little sparkle to the occasion.
Where to buy
Whispering Angel is available from O’Briens, Brown Thomas, independent off licences and select Super Valu and Dunnes Stores locations. Rock Angel is available in O'Briens, Molloys, Brown Thomas and select independent off licences. Chateau d'Esclans is available from Brown Thomas, The Corkscrew Dublin and The Malt House Trim, Garrus is available from The Malt House Trim and Brown Thomas while Les Clan is also available from Brown Thomas.
For more see esclans.com
In partnership with Chateau d'Esclans
