Provence

Rosé is central to modern Provence, but its wines are not interchangeable. Coastal exposure, inland elevation and different soils shape the three large Provence appellations, while origins such as Bandol and Cassis add their own identities. Pale colour alone does not establish sweetness, concentration or quality.

Look beyond a general Provence association to the actual appellation on the label. Côtes de Provence covers a wide and varied area; Coteaux Varois en Provence occupies a more inland setting. Reds and whites are also worth seeking out, especially when learning how Mediterranean grapes behave outside a rosé blend.