The historical vineyards of Costières de Nîmes roll out on a landscape framed
between the towns of Nimes and Arles. The Rhône’s most southerly appellation
produces consistently well-made, rich, fruity red and Rosés and has done so for
a very long time. With tales of the elixir being consumed by the ancient Greeks,
these may be among the world’s oldest known varieties of grape vines. The local
variants from this French region continue to thrive and the winemaking business
remains enduringly renowned and strong.

Acting as a geographic divide between Languedoc to the west and Provence to
the east, the Rhône delta region is the meeting of the Rhône, Durance and Gard
rivers before their combined flow spills outward into the blue Mediterranean Sea.
Sandy alluvial soils mixed with red shale contributes to the unique character of
these classic Rosés with their blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault. Grenache
provides the raspberry and earthen aromas; Syrah typically adds structure with
its tannins and dark fruit flavours such as blueberries and blackberries, while the
Cinsault, with its soft, fragrant characteristics, lifts the aromatics of the wine.

Located 35 miles from famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the Mas Des Bressades
estate is also considered a premier producer, though its offerings are available
at far more modest price-points. Under the enthusiastic guidance of the current
vintner Cyril Marès, 6 generations of vinicultural practices continue to evolve. To
fashion this particular form of finished wine, a so-called Saignée method is used.
Literally meaning “bleeding” in French, it involves making the light coloured wine
as a by-product of red wine fermentation, where a portion of the pink juice from
the grape must is removed earlier on, then fermented separately as Rosé.

As many DéClassé readers have come to appreciate, Rosé from the regions in
South-eastern France are very dry, food-friendly wines that are far more delicate
and rounded than many of the sweeter, less-dimensional new-world versions. If
you still need additional motivation to revisit this woefully under-appreciated style,
then dare try this as a delightful contribution to your Mothers’ Day celebrations!

MAS DES BRESSADES CUVÉE TRADITION ROSÉ 2014
VINTAGES – Product #950576 | 750 mL bottle
Price: $ 15.95
Wine, Rosé Wine
13.5% Alcohol/Vol.
Sugar Content: XD – Extra Dry

Made in: Rhône, France
By: Cyril Marès, Vign.
Release Date: May 2, 2015

Tasting Note
Bright pink/orange in colour with aromas of cherry, strawberry preserves and
melon. Dry, fresh and fruity with a surprisingly plump structure. Moderate acidity
and a medium-long finish. Try matching it to pan-fried scallops, or a herb chicken
stuffed with feta cheese and olives.