Presentation
The Clos Cibonne Côtes de Provence Tibouren Cuvée Prestige Caroline Rosé 2022 150cl is a distinctive rosé from one of Provence’s most characterful coastal estates. Produced from the rare Tibouren grape, this cuvée stands apart from conventional Provençal rosés by its depth, complexity and remarkable ageing capacity. Presented here in a generous magnum format, it is designed for shared moments, allowing the wine to evolve slowly in the glass and reveal its full aromatic palette. This is a gastronomic rosé, crafted for discerning enthusiasts seeking both authenticity and strong regional identity.
Origin and Production
- The estate lies in the Côtes de Provence appellation, close to the Mediterranean, on hillside vineyards benefiting from sea breezes and a sunny, temperate climate. The terroir is primarily schist and clay, giving the wines finesse, salinity and a marked mineral backbone.
- The heart of this cuvée is the historic grape Tibouren, sometimes complemented by a small proportion of other traditional Provençal varieties. Tibouren is renowned for producing pale yet structured rosés, with spicy, Mediterranean aromas and real personality.
- At Clos Cibonne, the rosés are traditionally vinified with great care, followed by ageing in old wooden foudres, often under a thin veil of yeast. This unique method brings texture, complexity and subtle oxidative notes, while preserving freshness. The 2022 vintage in magnum gains further harmony from this élevage, offering a balance between fruit, spice and saline tension.
Tasting
- Appearance
In the glass, the Clos Cibonne Côtes de Provence Tibouren Cuvée Prestige Caroline Rosé 2022 150cl displays a delicate, slightly coppery pale pink hue, with luminous highlights and a fine, silky texture.
- Nose
The bouquet is complex and expressive, unfolding notes of ripe citrus, blood orange and white peach, followed by hints of dried herbs, garrigue, rose petals and subtle spices. A light saline and iodised impression recalls its maritime origin and brings great elegance.
- Palate
On the palate, this rosé is ample yet taut, with a precise, linear structure. The fruit is juicy but never heavy, supported by a fine bitterness and a long, savoury, saline finish. The ageing in foudres brings a delicate aromatic patina and a refined, almost umami depth that invites another sip.
Food Pairings & Drinking Occasions
- This gastronomic rosé pairs beautifully with Mediterranean cuisine: grilled fish, seafood platters, bouillabaisse, octopus, aioli, but also Provençal vegetable dishes, white meats with herbs and refined tapas. Its structure also allows it to shine alongside spicy dishes and flavoursome Asian cuisine.
- The magnum format makes it ideal for convivial meals, summer evenings, gourmet picnics or special occasions. It is as enjoyable as an aperitif for enthusiasts of characterful rosés as it is throughout an entire meal.
Cellaring Potential and Serving
- Minimum drinking window: from now through the next 2–3 years to fully appreciate its youthful energy and aromatic intensity.
- Thanks to the Tibouren and the traditional élevage, this cuvée has genuine ageing potential in magnum, offering additional complexity over 5–7 years, developing notes of dried fruit, spice and truffle while retaining freshness.
- Serve chilled but not over-cold, around 10–12 °C, ideally in white wine glasses to allow the wine to open up and express its singular Provençal character.