17 Jan 2025

Anthocyanins

Château d’Esclans: the emblematic Provençal estate of luxury rosés

By Fabien Dubois

Château d’Esclans is a wine gem nestled in the heart of Provence. A property of 427 hectares, including 140 hectares of vines, this estate has established itself as a world reference in the production of high-end rosés. Acquired in 2006 by Sacha Lichine , the estate has experienced a meteoric rise, becoming a symbol of excellence in the world of wine.

Château d’Esclans, a Provençal wine jewel, has established itself as a world reference in the production of high-end rosés.

  • Exceptional estate of 427 hectares, including 140 hectares of vines
  • Annual production of approximately 450,000 bottles
  • Cutting-edge winemaking techniques for complex wines
  • International influence with 95% of production exported
  • Flagship vintage: Whispering Angel , world reference for Provence rosés

An exceptional estate in Provence

Located in the Var, Château d’Esclans benefits from a Mediterranean climate ideal for growing vines. The clay-limestone soils and sandy gravel give the wines their unique character. I had the chance to visit this estate during one of my wine-tasting trips, and I can assure you that the setting is simply breathtaking.

The Château itself, in the 19th century Tuscan style, is surrounded by vineyards, some of which are over 80 years old. These old vines, mainly Grenache, are the source of the Garrus cuvée, which was the most expensive rosé in the world when it was released . The history of the estate dates back to Roman times, adding an interesting heritage dimension to this place.

In 2019, the LVMH group (Moët Hennessy) became the majority shareholder at 55%, marking a new stage in the development of the estate. This association has helped consolidate the position of Château d’Esclans on the international luxury wine market.

A wine production of excellence

Château d’Esclans produces around 450,000 bottles per year, sold in more than 100 countries. The main vintages are:

  • Garrus
  • Les Clans
  • Château d’Esclans
  • Rock Angel
  • Whispering Angel

Among these vintages, Whispering Angel has established itself as a world reference for Provence rosés. During a tasting that I hosted in Dijon, my hometown, this wine particularly seduced the participants with its finesse and freshness.

The Château d’Esclans vineyard is made up of several traditional grape varieties of the region:

Red grape varietiesWhite grape varieties
GrenacheRolle
Cinsault
Tibouren
Mourvèdre
Syrah

Cutting-edge winemaking techniques

Château d’Esclans is distinguished by the use of modern techniques and high-level oenology. The harvest is carried out manually, early in the morning, to preserve the freshness of the grapes. Rigorous optical and manual sorting guarantees the selection of the best berries.

The vinification is done in stainless steel vats and oak barrels, depending on the vintage. This approach makes it possible to obtain wines of great complexity, combining freshness and aging potential. The estate’s cellars, among the oldest in Provence, offer optimal conditions for maturing the wines.

I had the opportunity to chat with the technical team at a trade show, and their passion for innovation is truly inspiring. They are constantly looking for new methods to enhance the expression of the Provençal terroir.

International influence

The success of Château d’Esclans extends far beyond the borders of Provence. In fact, around 92 to 95% of the production is exported , mainly to Anglo-Saxon markets. This international success is a testament to the exceptional quality of the wines produced by the estate.

The reputation of Château d’Esclans is built on the finesse and elegance of its rosés. These wines are renowned for their freshness, aromatic complexity and remarkable ageing potential, defying preconceived ideas about rosé wines.

When I travel to give wine conferences, I am always impressed by the reputation of Château d’Esclans abroad. It is a true ambassador of the French art of living and Provençal wine excellence.

As a wine and gastronomy enthusiast, I can only recommend that you discover the vintages of Château d’Esclans. They offer a unique taste experience, perfect to accompany your moments of summer conviviality or to enhance your most refined dishes.