2011 Clos Ste. Magdeleine, Cassis Rose, Provence France.
A warm San Francisco evening inspires and what better way to bask in such glories than with a lovely dry Rose from Provence, in fact that is what I did, I enjoyed the whole bottle. Clos Ste. Madeleine, imported by Kermit Lynch, is one of the best domaines in Provence and their Cassis Blanc, mostly Clairette, is a masterpiece of near perfection, but their Rose is a rare treat, much in the same way Domaine Tempier’s Rose is. The new 2011 Clos Ste. Magdeleine is a beauty with tangy citrus, mineral and savory spices, while at 12.5% it can be celebrated without the threat of a hangover, lucky for me, as this wine is pure joy. The “Maggie” starts with nectarine, sour cherry, strawberry and crisp watermelon with a vidid mineral streak, finishing bright and dry. Round texture on the palate and hints of spice give extra pleasure, as does the crisp clean nature of this Rose making it great to savor on it’s own or with a mix of foods. Sadly, it is rare and costly, but worth chasing down, no question this is a jewel!
($35 Est.) 93 Points, grapelive
Avail at www.sfwtc.com or through Kermit Lynch