Château d’Esclans The Pale Rosé by Sacha Lichine 2023

Winery Background and History

Château d’Esclans, revitalised by Sacha Lichine in 2005 in Provence’s Var region, is majority-owned by LVMH since 2019. Lichine revolutionised rosé as a serious, premium category with Whispering Angel. “The Pale” was introduced as a stylish yet accessible expression, crafted for everyday luxury while staying true to Provençal terroir and tradition  .

Producer and Wine Maker

Under the vision of Sacha Lichine and team, The Pale is made from Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and Rolle, sourced from select vineyards in the Var. Grapes are hand-harvested at night, optically sorted, then gently pressed and cold-fermented in stainless steel. It sees lees contact to enhance texture, with no oak influence, preserving freshness  .

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Sourced from the best terroirs of the IGP Var region—sandy and rocky soils with Mediterranean breezes and marked diurnal shifts. Night harvesting maintains acidity and aromatic integrity  .

Vinification & Aging Methods

Free-run juice is cold-fermented in stainless tanks and aged on fine lees to build mid-palate texture. Screw cap closure ensures purity and freshness. No malolactic fermentation takes place  .

Tasting Notes

Pale copper-pink with aromas of peach, pink grapefruit, strawberry, and white flowers. Lively on the palate, displaying crisp citrus, red fruit, light minerals, and a creamy yet clean finish  .

Food & Wine Pairing

Ideal with tapas, shellfish (oysters, prawns), summer salads, sushi, grilled vegetables, charcuterie, or as a refined aperitif  .

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 8–10 °C in a tulip or medium-bodied white wine glass. Allow a few minutes to open after uncorking; no decanting required ().

Storage and Aging Potential

Best consumed 2023–2026. With ideal conditions (10–12 °C, dark, upright), it may hold freshness through 2027, though it’s intended for youthful enjoyment ().

Grape Varietals & percentage used

Blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and Rolle; exact percentages undisclosed  .

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5–13% ABV  .

Scores

• 89 – James Suckling (IGP Var average) 

• 88 – Wine Enthusiast (2022 vintage)