Description
Our favourite Rose is back! Tavel is a village and vineyard area in the Southern Rhone region of France. It specialises in dry rose wines. The main varieties found here are Grenache, Clairette, Cinsault, Mourvedre and Syrah. With a quintessential Mediterranean climate: low rainfall, plenty of sun and exposure to the local Mistral winds, the grapes are able to reach full ripeness, leading to a particularly ripe, full, characterful rose. The land which was to become Chateau d’Aqueria was purchased by Louis Joseph d’Aqueria in 1595 and is now owned by the third generation of the Olivier family.
TASTING NOTES: Aside from the ruby colour, the complex, aromatic nose is the first thing that strikes you, with dried herbs and a hint of spice alongside red fruits. Strawberry, raspberry and cherry accompany watermelon. Made from a blend of seven different grape varieties (Grenache, Clairette, Cinsault, Mourvedre, Syrah, Bourboulenc and Picpoul), this is a full-bodied, rich, complex wine and a world away from both the pale and subtle roses of Provence and also the usually darker, off dry style made from Zinfandel; it’s also an excellent food match.
FOOD PAIRING AND SERVICE: The added body and alcohol also mean this pairs with many dishes that would usually overpower a rose. Pork, and richer Salmon and Tuna dishes were two of our favourites. Drink now till winter 2026.
ABOUT: Chateau d’Aqueria is a 98 hectare (240 acre) estate in the Southern Rhone Valley, specifically in the Tavel vineyard area. It was purchased by Louis Joseph d’Aqueria in 1595, hence the name. In more modern times, it was owned by the Olivier family till 2022, when the Guigal family of the Northern Rhone Valley bought the estate (the same management and winemaking team remain, however). While they produce a number of very good red and white wines, it is their rose which is regarded as their ‘Grand Vin’ or the best wine in their range.
