The 2013 Aurelia Prima Côtes de Provence Rose’ is a blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 20% Rolle (also known as Vermentino and Yes, it is a White grape) sourced from a vineyard in the westernmost portion of the Côtes de Provence AOP in the south of France. The Aurelia Pima Rose’ is a wine produced by Domaine Fontlade, there has been a wine estate on this property since the 900s and the current owners have held the estate since 1942. Almost 90% of the wines produced in Provence are Rose’. Provence was the first Roman province outside of Italy in the 2nd century BC and they called it “Nostra Provincia,” which translates to our province and that simple name is still in use after all these years.
The color is a pale delicate pink. The nose is cotton candy and Bazooka Joe bubble gum, along with fresh red berries. This is a dry (not sweet) Rose’, well-balanced with crisp acidity and ripe red fruit. While this is a dry Rose’ the strawberry, raspberry and watermelon flavors have a hint of nectar sweetness that is countered by the acidity and a lemon citrus component. This is a very pretty Rose’, it has fine structure and length, the flavors have plenty of time to develop. The finish is long and refreshing.
Exports the Rose’ wines from Provence to the US grew by 40% from 2012 to 2013 and I can see why, these Rose’ are light, crisp and refreshing, but also have the body and structure to pair well with a variety of summer dishes. The 2013 Aurelia Prima Rose’ should sell closer to $10, than the usual Provence Rose’ (they tend to start between $15 and $20), but it held its own against the higher priced wines. The Aurelia Prima Rose’ is a lovely wine for a hot summer afternoon or on the Patio in the evening and would pair well with fancy salads with strawberry or raspberry vinaigrette dressing, fish tacos or spicy Thai noodles.
