Côtes de Provence Rosé Cru Classé “L’Excellence” 2020 – Château Saint-Maur

Located in the southernmost part of Côtes de Provence, Château Saint-Maur is nestled between the foothills of the stunning Massif des Maures mountain range and the Mediterranean Sea. Just 10km from Saint-Tropez, this beautiful part of the world lends itself to the production of the iconic, pale pink, Provencal rosé that has become a British summertime staple. Built in the 19th century, Château Saint-Maur’s winemaking roots run deep within Provence. Since 1955, the estate has upheld the elite status of Cru Classé, alongside a small list of just 22 other estates. A designation which is granted upon the evaluation of an estate’s history, winemaking, vineyard quality and reputation. In 2011, having successfully owned a winery in the Douro for 25 years, Roger Zannier set his sights on Château Saint-Maur. Recognising the undeniable quality of the terroir, he purchased the estate with the intent to produce top quality, regional wines of distinction. Roger Zannier appointed his son-in-law, Marc Monrose, to manage the 100 hectare estate. Upon acquisition, they commissioned the construction of a brand new, state-of-the-art-winery. Their focus is Rosé, making up 85% of their total production. They work with an array of varieties such as Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvedre, Syrah, Rolle, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tibouren. Both in the vineyard and in the winery, they treat their grapes with the upmost care and respect. Every plot is individually handled to ensure each variety is expressed to its best potential. Today, this modern winery thrives, with new talent and passion for superior quality wines. Extremely well made, we were impressed with these wines for their precision, focus, purity of fruit and value for money at every level.