Clos Cibonne Tibouren Tradition Rosé 2023

Clos Cibonne Tibouren Tradition Rosé 2023
Grand Cru Classé · Côtes de Provence AOP · France

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Description

The most original and thrilling rosé in Provence is born on a 17th-century estate nestled in the schistous hills of the Maure range, just 800 metres from the Mediterranean, in the hands of the Roux family for nearly 230 years. The rare, ancestral Tibouren grape — accounting for less than 2% of Provençal plantings — and ageing in century-old foudres beneath a fragrant veil of flor yeast (“fleurette”) yield a singular style, the very opposite of the easy, fruit-forward rosés that dominate the world market. Independence, character, history and a real sense of “drama” — Clos Cibonne has it all!

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A Unique Terroir

One of the most authentic and unmistakable expressions of Provence, Clos Cibonne’s Tibouren Tradition Rosé unites a centuries-old tradition with a maritime terroir to craft a rosé of soul and longevity. Situated on the slopes of the Maures mountain range, facing the sea between the Rade de Toulon and the Giens peninsula, this unique vineyard lies on well-drained clay-schist soils. The maritime breeze brings freshness during the summer, while easterly and westerly winds ensure excellent vineyard health.

The rare, emblematic Tibouren grape (90%) is grown gobelet-trained from 20-year-old vines, with a small portion of Grenache (10%). Sustainable farming and early morning hand-harvesting ensure perfect ripeness. Winemaking involves direct pressing, slow fermentation in stainless steel, and 12 months of ageing in century-old oak casks under a veil of flor yeast — a technique reminiscent of the Jura’s sous voile, imparting complexity and a distinct saline character.

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Technical Details

Producer: Clos Cibonne
Region: Provence, France
Appellation: Côtes de Provence AOP – Cru Classé
Vintage: 2023
Grapes: 90% Tibouren, 10% Grenache
Vineyards: Maures mountain slopes, clay-schist soils, 800 m from the coast
Farming: Sustainable agriculture, manual soil work
Average vine age: ~20 years

Winemaking:
• Direct pressing
• Stainless steel fermentation (~10 days)
• 12 months ageing in century-old oak foudres under fleurette
• Alcohol: 13% vol
• Style: Dry gastronomic rosé, oak-aged
• Production: Limited

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Tasting Notes

A pale hue between orange and salmon. Aromas of ripe exotic fruit, clementine compote, dried rose, sweet spices, white pepper, ginger and a hint of liquorice. With aeration, intense notes of white truffle, ripe citrus and a striking iodine signature emerge. On the palate, it is full-bodied, vibrant and enveloping, with a warm, spicy finish framed by subtle oak.

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Suggested Pairings

• Grilled Mediterranean red mullet
• Lamb curry
• Fish in sweet and sour sauce
• Indian or North African-inspired dishes
• White truffles and wild mushroom dishes

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