It looks like Bandol rose, it smells like Bandol rose, and it tastes like Bandol rose. The only difference is that this Provencal pink wine comes to you at less than $25 per bottle. Keep in mind that if this botte had the word "Bandol" on it, you'd be looking at paying $30+ per bottle.
Just half a mile south of Domaine Tempier is their more historic and certified organic neighbor Domaine Ray-Jane. With a 700+ year history of wine production, this is an estate that deserves a lot more attention. Their Var Rose offers unmatched value in the Provencal rose category.
2021 Domaine Ray Jane Var Rose
Delightful dry rose from this historic Bandol estate. A ton of dry pink wine for the money!
ORDER NOW in our online store or stop by the store and pick some up.
It's time to start talking about dry rose folks. The temperatures are rising, the flowers are blooming, and it is wines like this that make spring one of the best wine drinking seasons. A classic blend of Mourvedre, Cinsault, Grenache, and Carignan from 30 to 50 year-old, certified organic vineyards just north of Bandol, this stuff is pretty amazing.
So what is "Var" you ask? This is a reference to the Coteaux Varois viticultural zone of Provence, and the famed seaside village of Bandol is actually part of this region. I spoke with the importer yesterday, and he let me know that the old vines used in this wine are less than a mile from the "county line" of the Bandol AOC. I guess that's why it "behaves" so much like a Bandol rose.
There is a delicate power to this wine. The bouquet is beautiful with aromas of wild strawberry, tart cherry, white peach, citrus zest, and crushed rock. On the palate, the wine is very giving and balanced with is flavors. Although it is rich and intense, the zesty acidity and complex minerality keeps everything focused and in check.
In the year 2022, with rising prices on everything, I never though I'd be able to offer you a Bandol-like rose for less than $25. Sometimes, things just work out. Enjoy this food-friendly rose with classic Provencal fare....that means a little bit of light protein and lots of fresh veggies.
ORDER NOW in our online store or stop by the store and pick some up.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville