Provence, the sun-drenched region of southern France, has long been celebrated for its lavender fields, charming villages, and distinctive cuisine. Yet, it is the region’s deep-rooted winemaking tradition—particularly its mastery of rosé—that continues to captivate global palates. As France’s oldest winegrowing area and the world’s leading producer of rosé, Provence offers an ideal combination of Mediterranean climate, varied terroirs, and high-altitude vineyards.
At the forefront of this legacy is Maison Saint Aix, a winery that for the past 15 years has focused on producing a singular expression of Provençal rosé through its flagship wine, AIX Rosé. Situated on one of the largest estates in the region—spanning 75 hectares—Maison Saint Aix cultivates Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault on vineyards perched 450 meters above sea level in the Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence appellation. These elevated sites benefit from warm days and cooling effects brought by altitude and the Mistral wind, creating optimal conditions for balanced wines.
The 2024 vintage of AIX Rosé is a testament to the strength of this microclimate. Winemakers report a refined harmony of ripe red berry aromas and vibrant acidity, a profile that underscores the house’s commitment to quality and regional authenticity.
Reviving a Historic Tradition
While rosé remains the region’s calling card, Provence’s history of white wine production—particularly in its northern reaches—traces back to the 10th century. Monks at Montmajour Abbey were among the first to elevate the region’s white wines to prominence. Maison Saint Aix is now continuing that legacy with the debut of AIX White, a new release available in limited quantities to its loyal clientele.
Owner Eric Kurver, who acquired the estate in 2008, has spent over a decade preparing for this moment. With the support of winemaker Nicolas Quiles, the estate gradually introduced white grape varieties, carefully refining blends and techniques. The resulting AIX White is composed of Rolle (Provençal Vermentino), Sauvignon Blanc, and Grenache Blanc. The wine showcases aromas of citrus blossom, tropical fruit, and ripe peach, paired with a mineral-driven palate that retains the signature freshness and elegance of the region.
AIX White is crafted to pair effortlessly with local cuisine—grilled seafood, Provençal salads, and goat’s cheese—making it an ideal companion for relaxed outdoor dining.
Embracing Modern Tastes
In addition to honoring tradition, Maison Saint Aix is also stepping into the future of wine with its first non-alcoholic offering, BEAU VIVA. This sparkling rosé represents the estate’s foray into the burgeoning no- and low-alcohol sector, where consumer demand continues to rise.
BEAU VIVA was developed to maintain the quality and sensory richness for which the maison is known. The decision to produce a sparkling rosé reflects both the celebratory nature of the style and the added texture that effervescence provides. The blend features Colombard, chosen for its aromatic resilience through alcohol removal, and a touch of Merlot, which lends both color and fruity complexity.
Vacuum distillation was selected as the alcohol-removal method, a process that best preserves the wine’s aromatic integrity and guards against oxidation. The result is a lively, refreshing beverage, boasting familiar notes of grapefruit, strawberry, raspberry, and orange zest—flavors evocative of traditional Provençal rosé.
Through its recent releases, Maison Saint Aix continues to redefine the boundaries of Provençal wine. Whether through a classic rosé, an elegant white, or an innovative alcohol-free sparkling, the estate remains firmly rooted in the landscape and lifestyle that have made Provence synonymous with relaxed refinement.
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