Château Gassier Le Pas du Moine Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire Rosé 2017 3L

Winery Background and History

Château Gassier, established in 1982, is situated at the foot of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain in Provence, France. The estate spans 40 hectares within the Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire appellation, renowned for producing high-quality rosé wines. Château Gassier is committed to organic viticulture, ensuring that its wines authentically express the unique terroir of the region.

Producer and Winemaker

Under the leadership of Georges Gassier, representing the fifth generation of the Gassier family, the estate combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations. The winemaking team focuses on minimal intervention to highlight the natural characteristics of the grapes and the terroir, resulting in elegant and expressive rosé wines.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The vineyards are located on the southern slopes of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain, benefiting from a Mediterranean climate characterized by warm days and cool nights. The soils are predominantly limestone and clay, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the minerality and freshness of the wines. The Mistral wind also plays a crucial role in maintaining vine health by reducing humidity and disease pressure.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness and undergo direct pressing at low temperatures to preserve their delicate aromas. The must is then fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures between 14°C and 18°C. After fermentation, the wine is aged on fine lees for several months to enhance its texture and complexity before bottling.

Tasting Notes

The 2017 Le Pas du Moine Rosé exhibits a clear, lychee-colored hue with purple reflections. The nose is intense, offering aromas of white flowers and exotic fruits such as mango and lychee. On the palate, the wine is fresh and round, displaying flavors of guava and grapefruit, leading to a lingering, elegant finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This rosé pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including seafood such as grilled red mullet, ceviche, or razor clams cooked on the plancha. Its freshness and fruit-forward profile also complement Mediterranean cuisine and light salads.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic profile and freshness, serve the 2017 Le Pas du Moine Rosé chilled at a temperature of 8°C to 10°C (46°F to 50°F). This enhances the wine’s vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidity.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this rosé is crafted for immediate enjoyment to capture its fresh and fruity characteristics, it can be cellared for up to 2-3 years. Over time, it may develop additional complexity, though it is best consumed young to appreciate its lively profile.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The 2017 vintage is a blend of Syrah (34%), Grenache (33%), Cinsault (16%), Rolle (12%), and Ugni Blanc (5%). 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The alcohol content for the 2017 Le Pas du Moine Rosé is 13%. 

Scores

Wine Enthusiast: 91 points. “Named after the footpath that monks followed to the top of Sainte-Victoire mountain, this wine brings out the texture and the richness of this region of Côtes de Provence. It is made from organically grown grapes, bringing ripe, full-flavored fruit to balance with the good acidity. Drink this rich wine now.” 

James Suckling: 90 points. “A solid rosé showing a bouquet of rose petals, lemons, sliced apples, and spices. Round and fruity but with enough acidity to carry this through to a tangy finish. Drink now.” 

Wine Advocate: 91 points. “The 2017 Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire Rose le Pas du Moine is a much bigger, richer wine than the winery’s Esprit Gassier. Passion fruit aromas lead off on the nose, followed by hints of guava and pink grapefruit.”