2020 COMMANDERIE DE LA BARGEMONE COTEAUX D’AIX-EN-PROVENCE ROSE

One of the top estates in the Coteaux d’Aix, a small, fine-wine district within the larger appellation of Provence, Bargemone produces the top-selling rose at HPS. With more than 160 acres under vines, 2/3 of the production is dedicated to the dry rose for which Provence is famous. Founded by Templar knights in the 13th century, the property was named “Bargemone” after the wealthy Provencal family that owned it for 200 years. It passed from their hands in the 1800’s, with the vineyards finally succumbing to phylloxera, ending, temporarily, a proud 800 year tradition of winemaking. In 1973, French industrialist Jean-Pierre Rozan purchased the property, restored the Commanderie and replanted the vineyards. Production was up to 50,000 cases/year when Jean-Pierre passed away in 2006, and a controlling interest in the vineyards and winery was sold to current owners Christian and Marina Garin (both from local Provencal families).