Provençal rosé gains global prestige as Château d’Esclans and Château Minuty lead the way

In the heart of Provence, two wineries have become leading names in the world of rosé wine: Château d’Esclans and Château Minuty. Both are now part of the Moët Hennessy group and have helped define the style and reputation of Provençal rosé on a global scale. Their wines are found in top restaurants, beach clubs, and wine shops across Europe, North America, and Asia, reflecting both tradition and modernity.

Château d’Esclans is located between Saint-Tropez and Cannes. Founded in 2006 by Sacha Lichine, son of renowned wine figure Alexis Lichine, the estate set out to change how rosé is perceived. The goal was to create rosé wines with the complexity and prestige usually reserved for grand cru reds or whites. The property itself has a history dating back over 2,500 years, but its modern era began with Sacha Lichine’s vision. Under the guidance of winemaker Bertrand Léon, Château d’Esclans produces a range of rosés that have become benchmarks for quality. Whispering Angel is perhaps the most recognized label, known for its freshness and accessibility. At the top end is Garrus, a barrel-aged rosé often cited as one of the world’s most exclusive pink wines.

The partnership with luxury conglomerate LVMH in 2019 marked a turning point for Château d’Esclans. With new investment and global distribution channels, the winery expanded its reach into new markets in Asia and the Americas. Today, it stands as a symbol of high-end rosé, appealing to both wine connoisseurs and those seeking a sophisticated lifestyle.

A few miles away on the Saint-Tropez peninsula sits Château Minuty. Founded in 1936 and still run by the Matton family, now in its fourth generation, Minuty offers a different take on Provençal rosé. The focus here is on freshness, lightness, and an easygoing Mediterranean spirit. The estate covers more than 140 hectares and practices sustainable viticulture without pesticides or herbicides. Minuty’s wines are known for their clean style and versatility at the table.

Minuty M Rosé has become a summer staple along the French Riviera, while other labels like Prestige and Or offer more depth for food pairings. The flagship Minuty 281 shows that rosé can be both mineral-driven and expressive. The winery’s commitment to sustainability has earned it recognition within France and abroad.

Both estates have contributed to changing perceptions about rosé wine. Once seen mainly as a seasonal drink for summer afternoons, Provençal rosé is now appreciated year-round for its quality and diversity. Château d’Esclans brings structure and aging potential to its wines through oak maturation, while Minuty emphasizes vibrancy and immediate pleasure.

The rise of these two wineries reflects broader trends in wine consumption. Consumers today look not only for quality but also for authenticity and identity in what they drink. The design of the bottles, the story behind each label, and the connection to place all play important roles in their appeal.

Château d’Esclans welcomes visitors to its estate in La Motte-en-Provence, offering tastings that highlight both history and innovation. Guests can explore vineyards that have been cultivated for centuries while sampling wines that have reached tables around the world.

Château Minuty also opens its doors to visitors interested in learning about sustainable viticulture and Provençal traditions. Its wines are now exported to over 100 countries, making it one of the most recognized ambassadors of Mediterranean lifestyle.

As interest in premium rosé continues to grow worldwide, these two estates remain at the forefront of both winemaking excellence and cultural influence. Their success demonstrates how a region’s heritage can be reimagined for new generations of wine lovers across continents.