With over 60% hydrogen fuel content used for glass melting, the direct carbon footprint of the melting process is reduced by more than 30% compared to standard procedures.
Hrastnik first revealed it had successfully produced premium glass bottles using hydrogen as a prime energy source last year.
Garrus: The Story Behind the World’s Best Rosé
For years, rosé wines have been the hottest category globally
Very few rosé wines dare to place themselves in the Pantheon of the world’s legendary wines. Among them, the Garrus from the renowned Chateau d’Esclans, produced by Sacha Lichine, stands out as a unique case.
When the Russian-born son of Alexis Lichine abandoned the Bordeaux “certainty” of the family wine business—selling the Cru Classe Chateau Prieure Lichine, no less—to bet everything on a decaying estate in Provence in 2005, any business consultant would have advised against it. At that time, Chateau d’Esclans consisted of a dilapidated winery and a 65-hectare vineyard, most of whose grapes were sold cheaply to neighboring wineries.
However, the visionary winemaker saw something others had missed: the nearly century-old vines at the highest point of the estate, known as Garrus in Latin. Don’t be surprised by this, as Chateau d’Esclans is a property with a history that dates back centuries, with its tower—only the cellar of which remains today—dating back to the 12th century.
In just a few years, Sacha Lichine and his winemaker, Patrick Leon, formerly of the prestigious Chateau Mouton Rothschild, managed to “resurrect” the estate in the village of Var, change the history of rosé with Whispering Angel, make Provence the ultimate place for this wine style, and create the first mythical rosé label. With some exaggeration, one might say that while in the rest of the world, what isn’t good enough for red wine becomes rosé, in Provence, what isn’t good enough for rosé becomes red! Of course, in this case, such a statement wouldn’t apply, as Esclans only produces rosé, but it highlights the significance of rosé in this cosmopolitan area of France.
In the case of Garrus, however, things go several steps further. It’s not just the blessed terroir of the small 4-hectare plot where it originates or the old vines that yield minuscule harvests, comparable to the greatest reds, that make the difference. It’s also the high proportion (20-25%) of the local white Rolle grape alongside the unique Grenache Rouge, the triple selection process the raw material undergoes, and the exclusive fermentation in 600-liter barrels, where the wine remains for almost a year.
For the winemakers, temperature is crucial in producing a top rosé, so they have ensured its regulation while the wine is in the barrel. We might not fully understand the impact on quality, but we can certainly grasp the financial impact, as the installation, according to the producer, cost 1 million euros. Fortunately, the winery has other opportunities to recoup its investment, as the 100% new barrels in which Garrus ages number only ten.
Wine lovers around the world have few chances to bring Garrus to their glasses, but the lucky few who manage to do so will forget everything they know about rosé wines. Garrus’ show starts with a bright color reminiscent of onion skin and an exceptionally complex and intensely concentrated aroma that evokes memories of potpourri, honeysuckle, peach, incense, and angelica flowers. Even more shocking, however, is the experience on the palate, where each sip feels like a serving of meat.
It’s not just the body and strength of Garrus that make it so special but also its creamy roundness, akin to that of heavy cream. The cherry on top is that all of this comes with incredible elegance, sophisticated minerality, and a tremendous finish. This profile makes Garrus less suitable as a poolside rosé or for St. Tropez decks—though it often ends up there—but rather a fine wine choice for any serious table or high-end wine event.
Hardly anyone associates rosé wine with aging, but this exceptional creation has proven it has all the qualities to age for at least 3-5 years. It might not often appear at auctions, but with a price of over 150 euros, Garrus makes many great white or red wines envious.
The top cuvée of Chateau d’Esclans laid the foundation for the ultra-premium category in Cote de Provence, a category that now includes other members with similar or even higher prices. But Garrus remains the ultimate benchmark wine, setting the standard for any rosé aspiring to be called great.
The price of a bottle in Greece ranges between 160-170 euros.
What does your wife really want for Mother’s Day? It’s a loaded question—and outside of breakfast in bed and cute homemade gifts from the kids, it can be tricky to find a present that says “I love you” and also shows just how much you appreciate her for being the best mom out there. But have no fear: The best Mother’s Day gift for your wife does exist. And lucky for you, we’ve found a bunch of stellar options.
Whispering Angel Rosé
While it’s true that a mom’s work is never done, what better time for her to sit back and relax with some vino than Mother’s Day? Toast your wife with a glass of Whispering Angel’s crisp rosé, then let her leisurely enjoy another while you put the kids to bed. Cheers to her (and motherhood)!
On June 11, after weeks of rain, the sun was shining, as were the smiles on the faces in our arty haunt in the heart of the 8th arrondissement of Paris. 80 of our loyal customers, especially young this year, had indeed met at the Galerie Guillaume, for a tasting of summer wines. A little tour of France of wines that we will tell you in the form of a photo album.
The little hands of the iDealwine employees are busy at the end of the day, customers are expected at 6:30 p.m.
On the walls of the Galerie Guillaume, the exhibition Lights of Day and Night by the artist François-Xavier de Boissoudy. Here, “View of the River”, 2024, ink on paper, 125 x 100cm.
THE WINEGROWERS PRESENT
PROVENCE: CHÂTEAU D’ESCLANS WITH VICTORIA DESPLANCKE
We continue our little tour of France through Provence. Judging by your purchases, the whispering angels have inspired you for this summer. • Whispering Angel 2023 (rosé) • Château d’Esclans Côtes de Provence 2022 (rosé) • Les Clans 2022 (rosé) • Garrus 2022 (rosé)
Father’s Day Gift Guide 2024: The Best Rosé Wines For Dad
By Jeanette Hurt
I cover the indulgence of all things distilled, fermented and brewed.
Garrus is considered the finest wine offered by this Côte de Provence producer.
Another great choice would be the quite popular Rock Angel.
Château D’Escans Garrus, $125
Considered to be this château’s finest wine, Garrus is made from grapes from a single vineyard, with nearly 100-year-old vines. This powerful wine boasts concentrated aromas and flavors of dried citrus, with glazed pear and pineapple on the mid palate, and a creamy finish with rich, spicy notes. Reminiscent of a vintage champagne without the bubbles, this is a grand wine
Experience the New Angels & Altitude Rosé Garden at Four Seasons Jackson Hole This Summer
Experience the enchantment of a rosé garden this summer at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. This captivating garden, featuring the wines of Château d’Esclans and capturing the essence of the French countryside, is named after the estate’s renowned Whispering Angel Rosé. The Angels & Altitude garden will open daily, starting on National Rosé Day, Saturday, June 8, 2024.
“Jackson Hole is transformed every summer into an outdoor paradise, with days filled with sunshine and time spent together al fresco,” says Director of Food & Beverage Rui Lopes. “Our summer rosé garden offers an immersive experience, where guests can sip on some of the finest rosé wine while surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of nearby mountain ranges and towering aspen trees.”
Situated on the Resort’s pool deck, Angels & Altitude welcomes both guests and local visitors. The garden will showcase a selection of specialty rosé wines, including several exclusive bottles introduced specifically for this event.
Open daily, the garden will transport visitors to the south of France, adorned with climbing vines, lavender, French umbrellas, picnic baskets, and other charming details. Throughout the summer, the Resort will offer special programming to highlight the garden, including a planned wine pairing dinner.
Says Château d’Esclans Vice President Paul Chevalier, “The Château d’Esclans portfolio is perfectly aligned with Four Seasons, as both brands embody a similar DNA focused on luxury and quality. With the exciting launch of the Angels & Altitude program, we are able to show consumers that rosé is more popular than ever…winter, summer, beach or mountains. Our wines are all about the ‘joie de vivre’ and where better to experience this than in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.”
The 9 Best Rosés to Drink This Summer
Try these outstanding bottles from around the world.
By Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen
We all have those friends that just won’t drink rosé because it’s not red nor white, so they don’t think it’s a real wine, but let’s face it: Rosé is here to stay. There are all types of social media activations, like Les Nuits en Rosé and Rosé All Day and in N.Y.C. there’s even a sunset boat ride dedicated to these enticing dusk-colored wines. So many people are drinking rosé right now that it has become one of the most popular wine choices as the weather heats up and we’re not ashamed to say that when we need to cool down, rosé is one of our go-to choices. When chilled properly it can be refreshing and even restorative, but since it’s produced from red wine grapes it can have more structure and complexity than white wine.
Sure, a lot of rosé wines can be what our English friends call “cheap and cheery,” but take it from us there are a plethora of very well-made rosé wines that have entered the luxury category. Many of the better ones are aged in wood barrels for additional flavor, complexity, and structure.
There are four ways to make rosé wine from red grapes. They include direct press, saignée, vin gris, and even blending white wine and red wine. Will dig deeper into each of these methods in the FAQ section down below, but without further ado, here are nine rosés you’ll want to be drinking this summer.
Best Overall Rosé: Chateau d’Esclans 2021 Garrus Rosé Cotes de Provence Provence France
Sacha Lichine acquired Chateau d’Esclans in Provence in 2006. The estate is situated just north of St. Tropez and many people may know the chateau as the original home of Whispering Angel rosé wine. While Whispering Angel is a perfectly fine entry offering, Sacha’s Garrus Rosé makes the former pale in comparison. If it weren’t for the pink color, Garrus 2021 could fool you into thinking you’re drinking a fine white Burgundy. It has aromas of white peach, apricot puree, and caramelized pineapple and flavors of pear, apple, candied orange peel, and luscious crème brulée with a bright acid finish.
Château d’Esclans and BlockBar sell NFT barrel
By James Evison
Producer Château d’Esclans and blockchain marketplace BlockBar are selling an Non-fungible token (NFT) barrel of Garrus rosé through an online auction.
The single barrel of Garrus 2023 is divided into four quarters and will be available through BlockBar’s new leaderboard technology. Once the wine is reading for bottling, each owner of the quarter-barrel — around 150 litres — will chose for the liquid to be bottled in either a regular size, Magnums, Jeroboams and even a six-litre Methuselah.
Purchasers will have the right to resell their share in the wine until 21 June on BlockBar’s marketplace with the potential owners also having to submit bottling requests by this date.
If owners opt to send their bottles to BlockBar’s storage facility, their quarter barrel NFT will be converted into NFTs representing ownership of the requested bottle sizes and quantities, the producer said.
Experience
All four owners of the barrel will also receive invitations to bring three additional guests for a day with Château d’Esclans founder Sacha Lichine in Provence during the autumn harvest season.
This experience includes a VIP tour of the winery and vineyards as well as a tasting with the winemaker. Each owner’s name will also be personalised on the barrel alongside a photo in the barrel room.
Premiumisation
Château d’Esclans founder Sacha Lichine said about the move that the producer was happy to “demonstrate the more noble side to rosè with Garrus” and the premiumisation of the rosé category was “just beginning”.
He said: “The innovation of auctioning a barrel of our finest rosé for the first time on BlockBar is very exciting,” he added.
BlockBar’s Jamie Ritchie said that Sacha Lichine had created “a global rosé revolution that has reverberated around the world”.
He said: “At Château d’Esclans, he reimagined the definition of world class rosé, from the ubiquitous Whispering Angel to Garrus, the most exclusive and serious rosé ever produced.
“It will be offered on BlockBar in a new leaderboard auction, which brings a fun and interesting pricing mechanic to the sale, making it another first of its kind.”
Exploring wine pairing can completely transform the dining experience, elevating both the dish and the drink chosen.
When it comes to rosé wine , versatility is its trademark, capable of accompanying a wide range of dishes and occasions.
Rosé wine stands out for its lightness and freshness, characteristics that make it perfect for pairing with foods with a delicate to moderately intense flavor.
Tips for Pairing Rosé Wine
Ideal Dishes for Rosé Win
Rosé wines are known for their ability to pair with a variety of dishes. From light salads and seafood dishes to white meats and mild cheeses, the pairing can be surprisingly broad. A key aspect for successful pairing is considering the aromatic profile and structure of the chosen rosé wine.
For example, a rosé from Provence, famous for its subtlety and floral notes, pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or lightly seasoned fish dishes. A fuller-bodied rosé, perhaps from the Tavel region in France, can support dishes with more intense flavors, such as grilled white meats or Mediterranean dishes.
Cheeses and Rosé Wine: A Versatile Combination
The choice of cheese to accompany your rosé wine can vary widely depending on the strength and style of the wine. Fresh, soft cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert, complement the lightness and freshness of more subtle rosés. On the other hand, cheeses with more striking flavors, such as feta or even chèvre, can enhance the attributes of a more robust rosé.
It is important to note that the serving temperature of the wine also influences the pairing experience. A rosé wine served slightly chilled, around 8-10°C, will best reveal its qualities, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of creamy cheeses or the saltiness of marine appetizers.
Considering these aspects, pairing rosé wines is not limited to rigid rules, but rather to experimentation and balance between the flavors of the dish and the wine. Whether for an elegant dinner or a casual picnic, rosé wine offers endless pairing possibilities, capable of pleasing different palates.
Glass of rosé wine and cheese (Image: IA)
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
What does rosé wine taste like?
The flavor of rosé wine is remarkably diverse, varying significantly depending on the grape used, the terroir and the production method. In general, rosé wines are characterized by their lightness and freshness, with a delicate balance between acidity and sweetness. Many have fruity and floral notes, including aromas of strawberry, cherry, raspberry and roses, with mineral touches in some examples. This combination of flavors makes rosé wine extremely versatile, suitable for both casual and more formal occasions.
When tasting a rosé wine, it is possible to perceive a complexity that defies the notion that it is a less sophisticated option compared to reds and whites. Its flavor palette, which can range from citrus notes to herbaceous touches, reflects the diversity of winemaking techniques and choices made by the winemaker, providing a unique and pleasant sensorial experience.
What is the difference between red and rosé wine?
The main difference between red wine and rosé lies in the production method, especially the contact time between the grape juice and the skins. Red wines are produced by allowing a longer maceration period, which extracts more tannins, color and flavors from the grape skins. This results in fuller-bodied wines, with greater complexity of flavors and aging potential. Rosé wines are made by limiting this contact, resulting in a lighter color, less tannins and lighter, fruitier flavors, reflecting the essence of freshness.
Another important difference is the versatility in gastronomic pairing. While reds generally pair best with red meat and more robust dishes, rosés have the ability to pair with a wider variety of foods, from light starters to white meats and seafood, thanks to their lightness and balanced aromatic profile.
When do you drink rosé wine?
Rosé wine is exceptionally versatile, suitable for a variety of occasions, from a relaxing outdoor picnic to an elegant dinner party. Its lightness and freshness make it the perfect choice for hot summer days, but its complexity and variety also allow it to be enjoyed all year round. Rosé is ideal for social events, such as parties and receptions, as it tends to be a “democratic” wine, pleasing a wide range of palates.
Furthermore, it is an excellent option for aperitifs or to accompany light meals, such as salads, seafood dishes and mild cheeses. The flexibility of rosé wine, capable of pairing with a variety of dishes, makes it a smart choice for any occasion that requires a sophisticated and accessible drink.
What are the best rosé wines?
The “best” rosé wines depend on personal taste, but some examples stand out on the international scene for their quality and representation. Rosé wines from Provence, France, are widely recognized for their excellence, exhibiting balance, freshness and aromatic subtlety. Brands such as Château d’Esclans (Whispering Angel) is (among) the most prestigious.
In addition to France, regions such as Spain, Italy and the United States also produce high-quality rosés. In Spain, rosés from Navarra offer excellent value for money, while in Italy, rosés from Tuscany and Sicily enchant with their personality. In the United States, the highlight is California rosés, which combine innovation and tradition. Choosing the best rosé wine should consider the desired flavor profile and the occasion, encouraging experimentation and personal discovery.
Summary
Variety of Flavors : Rosé wine has fruity and floral notes, such as strawberry, cherry, raspberry, and roses
Versatile Pairing : Ideal for light dishes, seafood, white meats and cheeses.
Key Differences : Less skin contact time differentiates rosé from reds, resulting in fewer tannins and lighter flavors.
Consumption Occasions : Perfect for any occasion, from casual picnics to elegant dinners.
Recommendations : Wines from Provence, Château d’Esclans stand out for its quality.
Curating the best wine in the Philippines for our community of wine lovers
WHISPERING ANGEL ROSÉ: PROVENCE’S ELEGANCE IN EVERY SIP
CRAFTSMANSHIP AND INNOVATION: THE ART OF WINEMAKING AT CHÂTEAU D’ESCLANS
At the heart of Whispering Angel’s allure lies the meticulous winemaking process, a symphony of craftsmanship and innovation orchestrated by the skilled hands at Château d’Esclans. From vine to bottle, every step is carefully choreographed to preserve the essence of Provence and capture the delicate flavors that define this iconic rosé.
HARVESTING: A LABOR OF LOVE The journey of Whispering Angel begins with the annual grape harvest, a labor of love that unfolds amidst the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence. Each September, from sunrise to noon, skilled vineyard workers carefully select and pick the ripest grapes, ensuring that only the finest fruit makes its way into the cellar. The harvest is conducted with precision, with grapes hand-picked and placed in small crates to avoid damage during transport.
SORTING Upon arrival at the cellars, the grapes undergo a rigorous sorting process to ensure only the highest quality fruit is used in the winemaking process. Manual sorting by experienced hands is followed by optical eye sorting, where grapes are meticulously inspected for health and quality. Only those grapes that meet the exacting standards of the winemaker are selected for vinification, a testament to Château d’Esclans’ commitment to excellence.
COOLING AND PRESSING Once sorted, the grapes are gently crushed to release their precious juice, which is then cooled to lock in its freshness and vibrancy. Temperature reduction is key to preserving the grapes’ delicate flavors, with the juice reaching temperatures as low as 7-8 degrees Celsius. This process ensures that Whispering Angel maintains its signature crispness and vitality, even as it undergoes fermentation.
FERMENTATION Fermentation is where the magic of winemaking truly begins. The juice, now transformed into wine, is placed in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to undergo fermentation. Here, yeast converts the grapes’ sugars into alcohol, while the wine develops its characteristic aromas and flavors. Throughout the fermentation process, careful monitoring and precise temperature control ensure that the wine retains its purity and elegance.
AGING AND BLENDING: THE ART OF ASSEMBLAGE After fermentation, the wine is aged to further develop its complexity and depth of flavor. Some batches may undergo barrel fermentation, where they are aged in oak barrels to impart subtle nuances of spice and texture. This methods pertains to the production of a portion of Rock Angel and Château d’Esclans while the two top end wines, Les Clans and Garrus are completely fermented and aged in oak barrels. Others may remain in stainless steel tanks to preserve their crispness and freshness. The final step is blending, where different batches of wine are carefully combined to achieve the desired flavor profile. The art of assemblage is a delicate balancing act, where each component plays a vital role in creating the harmonious whole that is Whispering Angel.
BOTTLING AND AGING Once blended, the wine is bottled and allowed to age, a process that allows its flavors to marry and evolve over time. While Whispering Angel is renowned for its youthful vibrancy, a period of aging adds complexity and depth to the wine, ensuring that it reaches its full potential upon release.
QUALITY CONTROL Throughout the winemaking process, rigorous quality control measures are in place to ensure that every bottle of Whispering Angel meets the highest standards of excellence. From vineyard to cellar, each step is carefully monitored and guided by the experienced hands of the winemaking team. This unwavering commitment to quality is what sets Whispering Angel apart, ensuring that every sip is a testament to the artistry and dedication of Château d’Esclans. It is this dedication to quality that has made Whispering Angel a beloved favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide, a wine that whispers of elegance and charm with every sip.
CULTURAL IMPACT: A GLOBAL PHENOMENON
Whispering Angel’s rise to prominence is a testament to its universal appeal. From chic rooftop bars in Makati and BGC to sun-drenched beaches in Palawan, Siargao, or Boracay, this iconic rosé has captivated wine lovers around the nation and around the globe. Its pale pink hue has become synonymous with sophistication, while its refreshing taste has made it the go-to choice for countless celebrations and gatherings. But Whispering Angel is more than just a wine; it is a cultural phenomenon. It has inspired a lifestyle centered around leisure, elegance, and conviviality, where every moment is an opportunity to savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether enjoyed with a casual meal or as an aperitif among friends, Whispering Angel embodies the spirit of enjoying life.
SAVORING THE TASTE OF WHISPERING ANGEL ROSÉ
Whispering Angel rosé tantalizes the palate with its exquisite flavor profile, offering a delightful balance of fruitiness, freshness, and elegance. Pouring a beautifully pale pink hue, it releases inviting aromas of fresh red berries, hints of peaches, and subtle floral notes. On the palate, Whispering Angel reveals ripe red berry fruitiness with a smooth and fleshy texture, culminating in a satisfying, smooth finish devoid of harsh astringency. Its versatility extends to pairing possibilities, making it an ideal match for light, summery dishes like seafood salads, grilled shrimp, or fresh sushi, as well as heartier Mediterranean fare such as herb-roasted chicken or grilled vegetables with olive oil. Whether enjoyed with friends at a casual gathering or as part of an intimate date night, Whispering Angel elevates every dining experience with its undeniable charm and elegance, offering a taste of Provence that beckons to be savored and celebrated. In every bottle of Whispering Angel, one discovers not just a wine, but a story waiting to be told. It is a testament to the beauty of Provence’s terroir, the artistry of winemaking, and the enduring appeal of a timeless classic inviting us to savor the elegance and sophistication of a truly exceptional wine.
