Provence rosé wines gain global acclaim as Whispering Angel and Minuty Prestige set new standards for quality

In recent years, the global wine market has seen a significant rise in the popularity of rosé wines from Provence, France. Two names stand out in this movement: Whispering Angel and Minuty Prestige. These wines have become symbols of the region’s winemaking tradition and are now widely recognized for their quality and style.

Whispering Angel is produced by Château d’Esclans, located in La Motte-en-Provence. The estate covers more than 140 hectares and is led by Sacha Lichine, who has played a key role in changing the perception of rosé wine worldwide. Since its introduction, Whispering Angel has been credited with elevating rosé to a new level of prestige. The wine is known for its pale color, delicate aromas, and balanced palate. It is made primarily from Grenache, Cinsault, and Vermentino grapes, which are typical of the region. The winemaking process focuses on preserving freshness and subtlety, resulting in a wine that appeals to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs.

Minuty Prestige comes from Château Minuty, a family-owned winery founded in 1936 on the Saint-Tropez peninsula. The Matton family has managed the estate for four generations, maintaining a focus on traditional methods while embracing modern techniques. Minuty Prestige Rosé is made from Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, and Tibouren grapes. The wine is noted for its floral notes, hints of apricot and peach, and a saline finish that pairs well with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. The Minuty Prestige range also includes a white wine with pineapple and citrus notes and a red wine with spice and structure.

Both wineries emphasize sustainable agriculture. They avoid herbicides and pesticides in their vineyards, aiming to protect the local environment and ensure the health of their vines. This commitment to sustainability is part of a broader trend among top producers in Provence.

The success of Whispering Angel and Minuty Prestige reflects broader changes in consumer preferences. Rosé wines from Provence have become associated with a relaxed yet sophisticated lifestyle. Their light color and crisp flavors make them popular choices for warm weather and outdoor gatherings. In cities across the United States, these wines are now common on restaurant lists and at social events.

The design of the bottles also plays a role in their appeal. Whispering Angel features understated packaging that highlights its elegance. Minuty bottles are known for their sleek shape and translucent glass, which showcase the wine’s color. These visual elements help reinforce the image of rosé as a modern luxury product.

The rise of these wines has had an impact beyond France. Both brands are now distributed in more than 100 countries. Their presence in international markets has helped establish Provence as the leading region for premium rosé production.

Tourism has also benefited from this trend. Visitors to Provence often seek out experiences at wineries like Château d’Esclans and Château Minuty. Tours typically include tastings, vineyard walks, and opportunities to learn about local winemaking traditions. These visits offer insight into how climate, soil, and grape varieties combine to create distinctive wines.

The story of Whispering Angel began when Sacha Lichine acquired Château d’Esclans in 2006 with the goal of making world-class rosé. He invested in new equipment and brought together a team focused on quality at every stage of production. The result was a wine that quickly gained attention for its finesse.

Château Minuty’s history dates back to before World War II when Gabriel Farnet purchased the property. Over time, his descendants expanded the vineyards and improved winemaking practices. Today, Jean-Etienne and François Matton continue this legacy while adapting to changing tastes.

The popularity of these wines shows no sign of slowing down as summer approaches in 2025. Retailers report strong demand across North America, Europe, and Asia. Wine critics continue to praise both brands for consistency and value.

In summary, Whispering Angel and Minuty Prestige have helped define what consumers expect from Provençal rosé: freshness, elegance, versatility, and a sense of place. Their influence extends from vineyards in southern France to tables around the world, shaping how people think about rosé today.