Summer has come way too early in Miami and humidity is at an all-time high! That, mixed with catchy ads, provoked me to buy Target’s inflatable kiddie pool. When I opened the box and saw the fun print, I knew exactly which wine I was going to enjoy in there – Barton & Guestier’s 2018 Côtes de Provence Tourmaline Rosé.
Founded in 1725 by Irishman Thomas Barton, Barton & Guestier is the oldest winehouse in Bordeaux. Barton & Guestier wines have been present in the U.S. market since 1785 and were drank by Thomas Jefferson himself. Today, the company provides wines from the main French wine growing regions and from Provence.
The winemakers work in partnership with about 200 winegrowers over the greatest French wine regions. Barton & Guestier is the only wine merchant to combine the most ancient experience in winemaking in Bordeaux and the latest technologies offered by its different partners.
Since this Rosé comes from Côtes de Provence, the vines were grown in clay, limestone, and schist in a Mediterranean climate – very windy with high temperatures and sun.
The wine is made up of 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, and 20% Syrah. It was pale salmon in color and had a fresh nose of berries and white flowers. On the palate, it was deliciously juicy with red berries and citrus. Totally refreshing. I loved the slender bottle with the jeweled design on the bottom – which is supposed to be reminiscent of a pink tourmaline gemstone (now you see where the name comes from). You can find it online for around $22.99. I paired it with a sweet soak in that kiddie pool in 90+ degree weather. The simple things in life.
Curious about Barton & Guestier’s other wines? Check out my notes on…
- 2017 Barton & Guestier Rosé D’Anjou
- 2017 Barton & Guestier Vouvray