2015 Domaine de l’ Abbaye-Clos Beylesse, Cotes de Provence Rosé, France.
One of the classic Rosé wines, the Clos Beylesse is easy to spot with it’s unique blue bottle (for UV protection) and distinct label, made from Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault it is a tasty and refreshing summer time treat. Only a few years I would hardly give attention to Rosé, now I can’t even begin to cover enough of the category, there are so many lovely wines to explore. This Clos Beylesse is serious and well crafted with plenty of stony austere and fine mineral detail to balance the Grenache juiciness, the Syrah lends some body and earthy notes and the Cinsault gives spice, floral dimension and pop to the whole, this pink has some leesy texture, but is very crisp and vibrant. The Rosé is made using Saigne with some of the juicy blessed off to get the right color and extraction, and here it was done extremely well and with great care to keep a delicate hue of pale pink with a light orange tint and just enough tannins to give grip without any harsh elements showing through, this is a graceful and stylish wine, maybe not the best or the most exciting of the season, but certainly charming and of high quality, you won’t be let down with it’s watermelon, tart cherry, mixed citrus and rosewater core or it’s sleek wet stones, lavender and feline nature. Beautiful, refreshing and transparent, and great on it’s own, the Clos Beylesse also adds enjoyment to a varied cuisine, though steamed mussels and even sushi are prime choices for this Cotes de Provence Rosé, drink over the coming year.
($27 Est.) 90 Points, grapelive
