France — wine

Côtes de Provence AOC

Provence's largest appellation, producing over 80% rosé of global significance. The pale, dry Provençal style — Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Tibouren — has set the international benchmark for premium rosé. The appellation spans diverse terroirs from limestone hills near Draguignan to maritime slopes near Saint-Tropez.

Year Rating Notes
2023 Warm, dry growing season with cool nights — ideal for aromatic freshness and pale colour. One of the best recent Provence rosé vintages for early drinking pleasure.
2022 Hot summer required careful canopy management; best producers made concentrated, structured rosé with good ageing potential.
2021 Cooler, wetter year — lighter style with higher natural acidity; elegant wines at lower alcohol than recent norm.