2017 Domaine de Terrebrune Bandol Rosé

Domain de Terrebrune was founded in 1963 by Georges Delille, a sommelier from Paris who bought vineyards in Ollioules, east of Bandol, in Provence. Dellile spent years updating the winery and replanting vineyards. In 1980 he was joined by his son, Reynald, and together they released the first vintage of Domaine Terrebrune, named for the rich brown soil of their 75-acre estate. The estate lies within the Bandol appellation and produces red, white and rose wines. The reds are primarily Mourvedre, with small amounts of Grenache and Cinsault. The whites are Clairette, Ugni Blanc and Bourboulenc. The rose is 50% Mourvedre, with the remaining being equal parts Grenache and Cinsault.

Provence is the region on the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France known for sun-drenched Lavender fields and an easy-going, gracious attitude toward life. Until the last few decades it was also known for producing large quantities of unremarkable rosé, often sold in bulk. Today its most famous wines are still rosés, but their quality has improved dramatically. Notable red wines are also being made in Provence, particularly in Bandol, a tiny appellation east of Marseille. The largest appellation is Côtes de Provence. Other appellations include Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, Côtes du Luberon, Cassis, Bellet, Palette and Les Baux de Provence. Red and white wines are made throughout the region, despite the attention paid to rosé. Red wine grapes grown in Provence are Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah and some Cabernet Sauvignon. White wine grapes are Clairette, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Bourboulenc and Ugni Blanc.