Rosé from Bordeaux remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets, and Rosé de Malleret 2023 proves why. This wine is made from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, grapes usually known for their power, but which here show their refined, fresh side. In the glass it shines with a pale pink hue and a salmon-pink glow — bright, inviting and contemporary in colour. The first impression on the nose is pure and aromatic. Ripe raspberries, wild strawberries and a hint of pink grapefruit rise from the glass, together with subtle floral touches of rose petals and white flowers. There is also a touch of lime and a small mineral accent reminiscent of wet stones in the sun, fresh, clean and just enough to make the whole exciting. On the palate the wine is taut and lively. The fruit is refined, with red fruit and citrus mainly setting the pace. The acidity is fresh but well integrated, giving the wine a fine balance between juiciness and tautness. The structure is light and elegant, without even a trace of sweetness, this is a dry rosé with precision. The Cabernet provides a subtle grip on the finish, while the Merlot brings roundness and fruitiness. The finish is invigorating and bright, with a touch of citrus zest and an elegant minerality that gives the wine just that little bit of extra length. Rosé de Malleret 2023 is a true summer wine, but with style and finesse: light, lively and well thought out.
Grilled king prawns, salade Niçoise or soft goat’s cheese with beetroot and citrus.
Château de Malleret, located on the Left Bank of the Bordeaux region in the commune of Le Pian-Médoc, has a history dating back to the 17th century. The estate is best known for its classic red wines from the Haut-Médoc, but also produces a refined white wine range under the name Balzane, named after one of the estate’s racehorses — a nod to the château’s historic equestrian tradition. The vineyards for the white wine lie on cool soils and are tended with care to bring out the fresh expression of Sauvignon Blanc and the structure of Sémillon to the full.