2013ClosCibonne2013 Clos Cibonne, Tibouren Rose, Cru Classe, Cotes de Provence, France.
The ultra traditional Clos Cibonne Rose made from the rare and native Tibouren grape is a year round and cellar worthy pink that delivers impressive depth and style. Tibouren is an ancient varietal that has little natural pigment, but works well in long lived Rose, it was the main red grape in the Provence region until the late 1800’s when they brought in and or planted more of the now famous Mourvedre, Cinnsault and Grenache, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon even, but Tibouren makes a wonderful wine and is still cherished and championed in the area, especially by Clos Cibonne. The Tibouren also makes a pale red wine and Clos Cibonne’s is a great example, for the wine geeks out there it is a must have wine, like the Jura’s pale Poulsard grape, but the Rose is very serious stuff and in particular this 2013 Clos Cibonne, which spends extended time on the lees and aged an extra year, mostly in old cask. This Cru Classe, one of the original 18 historic Crus of Provence, Rose of Tibouren excites from the first glimpse with it’s beautiful pinkish/orange hue, it is gorgeous in the glass and the palate is just as striking with subtle fruitiness, cool mineral tones, leesy mouth feel and mix of sweet and sour herbs, dried flowers and savory spices. This textured Rose has round tart cherry, wet stones, earth, watermelon, a hint of caramel, dusty lavender, rose water with a strawberry/cranapple finish and lingering chalk, saline, red citrus and light baking spice. This is a very sexy pink wine with vivid transparency, good focus, acidity and old school charm, and while not always easy to locate, you should grab it when you see it, drink the 2013 between 2015 and 2018. This is a year round Rose, great for all seasons and any cuisine!
($26 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive

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