Who makes it?

The Pale by Sacha Lichine is another in the line up of Chateau d’Esclans range of rosé wines. Unquestionably, they have a now enviable range of rosé from the South of France. The range also includes the uber prestigious ‘Garrus’ and the cultish 'Whispering Angel'. The estate is still partly owned by winemaker Sacha Lichine. Without a doubt, it was he who established the brand before selling part share to LVMH.

Sacha has really made a statement with the depth of his rosé offering.

See also 'The Beach by Whispering Angel' & Garrus

How do they make it?

The traditional South of France rosé blend is of grenache, cinsault and syrah grapes. The Pale has more than just a dash of 'Rolle' grapes as well.. Rolle, is of course, a white grape and one that many winelovers know as 'Vermentino'. It often appears in the pink blends of the South of France. Particularly in those from Provence. You might even find some Caladoc in the blend. Caladoc is a red grape that is only really just recently being discussed.

It has been fermented in stainless steel to keep the fresh fruit. This particular wine, The Pale, is about fresh and ripe fruit and is less textural than the other wines in the portfolio. However, like 'The Beach' it has had some lees contact to give some silkiness and creaminess to the wine.

For more information on lees, the dead yeast cells left over from ferment, please click here to read ‘What are lees?’.

What does it taste like?

It tastes like fresh strawberries, citrus, stonefruit and cream. That lees work has given the wine that light creaminess in flavour, aroma and that extra weight in the mouth. It is a dry, pale pink rosé. Lots to love here and it is juicy and long!

What to drink it with?

I suggest matching this wine with a chicken salad with some lardons or a fresh pasta with salmon. Maybe a fresh cheese salad too.

Quickie review « An easy choice entry point for this rosé story. »

Country of Origin: Provence, France
Price:  UK £17 | USD$ 17++ 
Drink: now! Now! NOW!
Needs food: no
Source: purchase

If you like French rosé wines, why not check out:
Your summer is coming up rosé .. from the South of France!
Chateau Vaudois Cuvee Marie
The Beach by Whispering Angel
Chateau D'esclans Whispering Angel

Visit esclans for more.

Retasted and updated May 2026