Chateau de L’Escarelle of one of the most prestigious wine estates in the heart of Provence, with 100 hectares of organically certified vineyards set in 1,000 hectares of beautiful woodland.
In the past year this property has made impressive steps to establish itself as a major player of sustainable agriculture in France. In 2016 the estate achieved Haute Valeur Environnementale certification (France’s most stringent environmental certification scheme, level 3), demonstrating their deep-rooted commitment to protecting the natural world. Their vines are planted at up to 500 metres above sea level, hugging the slopes of the Montagne de La Loube and adapting to the estates' clay and limestone soil profile. The terroir’s distinctive character is perfect for creating highly-expressive, elegant Rosé wines.
Viticulture: Chateau de l’Escarelle has 100ha of organically grown and certified vineyards, growing local varietals including: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Caladoc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rolle & Ugni Blanc. Their HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) certification level three means their vines benefit from being in a very biodiverse habitat, with minimal use of herbicides, pesticides and artificial fertilisers. Their vines also benefit from being planted at an altitude of up to 500m above sea level, lengthening the growing season. The hot dry summers in this Mediterranean climate are offset by the cooling effects of the Mistral wind.
Winemaking: Harvested by hand, the grapes are sorted not just once, but twice. Pressing and cold stabilization follow. The fermentation process is temperature-controlled at all times to help preserve the wine’s flavors and ensure it retains its subtle character. Aged on fine lees.
Oak Ageing: No oak ageing
Tasting Note: In the autumn of 2015 they began building a new storehouse. The new premises, which boasts the very latest technology, operates alongside the more traditional wine-making facilities and cellars. To their great surprise, during the building work they uncovered two statues depicting a couple of cheerful cherubs! The wine ‘Les deux anges’ (the two angels) draws its inspiration from these statues. Subtle and elegant with wild strawberry and citrus fruit on the nose. The palate is clean and fresh with beautiful smoothness and mango and pomelo notes.
Food Matching: Best drunk as an aperitif or with Provençal dishes, fish or grilled meats.
Awards: James Suckling 92 Points: Aromas of pink cherries and nectarines with dried tangerine peel, almonds and dried flowers. Medium-bodied and creamy with some salinity to it. Crisp and juicy with a fleshy finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink now. 92 Points, JS, March 2023.
