Wine & cellar advice

Reading a Provence rosé label

The appellation first

The appellation usually appears at the top of the label: Côtes de Provence, Coteaux d'Aix, Coteaux Varois, or Bandol for the most structured rosés. Each appellation imposes a different mix of grape varieties — Bandol requires a minimum of mourvèdre, producing more tannic rosés suitable for aging, unlike the majority of Provence rosés designed to be consumed within the year.

Vintage and freshness

The vintage indicates the harvest year; for a rosé, unlike a age-worthy red wine, a recent vintage is generally preferable, with few exceptions (certain Bandol wines age well).

Estate designation and alcohol level

The mention « vinifié en Provence » or the indication of a precise estate (as opposed to a commercial brand without an identified domain) provides guidance on traceability. The alcohol content, often between 12.5 and 13.5%, varies little, but a lower figure may signal an earlier harvest, consistent with a livelier style.