When I first opened the sample box, and saw AIX Rosé looking back at me, I was fairly excited.  Of all the wines in the box,  it had a certain something about it that made me feel as though I had seen it before, and had been curious to try it.  Much like a missed Craiglist connection though, I went my way, and it, well, presumably remained on the shelf.  Well AIX, as we’re at the end of summer, I think it’s time for you to tell me more, tell me more, like do you taste really fab?

[Disclaimer: The following bottle was generously provided as a sample.  For more on this, check out our sample policy.]

Sight:  A light pink, with many hints of copper.  There’s depth in the hues of pink and orange.

Smell:  The nose is beautifully elegant, with delicate smells of rose and fresh raspberry.  The berries, mix with freshly macerated cherry, and hints of strawberry and basil in a pungent and ripe.  There are hints of wet stone in the background that add a clean streak to the wine.

Sip:  The body is light, crisp, and refreshing.  Hints of candied oranges and pops of bright fresh raspberries come together with touches of rose, spice, and sage.  There’s great notes of other red fruits, like cherry, bouncing around with a little nod toward grapefruit and honeydew.

Savor:  The ending leans a little into the traditional Herbs de Provence; but maintains an good over tone of raspberry and notes of orange and spice.

AIX Rosé is frankly fantastic, and a rosé I’d be happy to pass an evening with.  The vibrant mix of red fruit, with a nod to the Herbs de Provence is a great combination of style and evolution.  The flavors are vibrant, the mouthfeel on point, and the nose inviting.  With the good acidity, and hints of minerality, AIX Rosé should have no problems pairing with almost any food on a summer cook out, be it burgers with caramelized onions or a beautiful salad with fresh berries, walnuts, and goat cheese.  For rosé lovers, this is a must try.

Verdict:  Raspberry, Candied Orange, Cherry, Floral, Clean
Rating: 91
Price: $18
Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, France

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