Porquerolles, Côtes de Provence Rosé, Domaine de l'Ile Porquerolles 2023

Rose pink, definitely darker than most Provence rosés. It certainly has the scent of the sea. And spreads right across the palate with a saline twist. Far more character than most of its peers. This would be great with fish and a wide range of summery Mediterranean dishes. Nice little bite on the end.

32% Grenache, 26% Syrah, 23% Cinsault, 13% Mourvèdre & 6% Tibourin; 12.5% alc.; Harvest dates: Rolle 20th & 23rd August, Syrah 19th & 22nd August, Grenache 20th, 25th & 29th August, Tibouren 18th August, Cinsault 21st, 23rd & 26th August, Mourvèdre 26th, 30th & 31st AugustThe colour is anything other than pink, with coral and pale amber tones that look serious and grown-up. The perfume is multi-layered with equal measures of spice and tanginess, tart stone fruit and abundant red fruits. But this is not a wine with any trace of raspberries or strawberries. There is tension here with pomegranate, cranberry, sour red cherries, pomelo and rhubarb. This is a delicious wine with obvious flesh and allure, but it is extremely carefully delivered. It makes other houses look like they produce wines for carefree teenagers, while Domaine de l’Ile is designed for experienced adults only! Interestingly, Pierre and Jean-Basile brought a bottle of the 2020 vintage to show how beautifully these wines age. While this was only the second vintage of this wine, it is precision-cut, resplendent and incredibly satiating. The colour had barely budged, and the fruit was soothing and the finish keen. This is a wine to savour as much as it is one to treasure. Take my advice and track down these wines – you will not regret it! 18.5/20 (Drink now – 2026)

This estate, located on the Porquerolles island and owned by Chanel Group, produces delicate, perfumed rosé wines. The 2023 Cotes de Provence Rose Porquerolles evokes aromas of red berries, lime, flowers and crushed stones intertwined with maritime notes. Pure and precise, medium-bodied and perfectly balanced, it’s delineated with bright acids, a juicy core of fruit and a long, mineral and mouthwatering finish. It's a blend of Grenache, Vermentino, Mourvèdre, Cinsault and Tibouren.