Cave de l’Ormarine, ‘Villemarin’ Rosé, 2024, Côtes de Thau (IGP)

'One-Liner'
A bright, dry southern French rosé with ripe strawberries, savoury red fruit and a refreshing citrus-and-saline finish.

Tasting Note
Pale pink in the glass, with fresh strawberry, raspberry and redcurrant joined by a softer touch of cream and ripe citrus. The palate is dry and generously fruited, with Carignan bringing a gently savoury edge while Grenache and Syrah add softness, perfume and colour. Lively acidity keeps everything crisp, leading into a clean, mouth-watering finish with lingering red berries and a subtle salty note.

Country: France
Region: Languedoc-Roussillon
Sub-Region: Côtes de Thau IGP
Grape(s): 70% Carignan, 20% Grenache Noir, 10% Syrah
ABV: 12%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Cave de l’Ormarine began in 1922, when a group of growers from Pinet joined forces to protect and promote the wines of their corner of the Languedoc. Today, the cooperative brings together vineyards stretching between the Mediterranean and the inland hills, with Villemarin coming from the Côtes de Thau beside the Étang de Thau. The nearby lagoon and sea help temper the southern heat, allowing Carignan, Grenache and Syrah to retain freshness as they ripen. Harvested at night and handled gently at cool temperatures, the grapes produce a rosé that is generous in fruit but lifted by the bright acidity and subtle saline character of its coastal origins.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Moules marinières with crusty bread
- Vegetarian: Roasted red pepper and ricotta bruschetta with basil
- Vegan: Black olive tapenade with roast aubergine and warm flatbread