Viniou Reviews
Gérard Bertrand’s Cote des Roses 2020 rosé is a charming ambassador of the Languedoc’s modern renaissance. Crafted predominantly from Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah, this cuvée offers a pale, delicate hue with vibrant clarity. The 2020 vintage, marked by a warm Mediterranean climate and beneficial coastal breezes, has yielded a wine notable for its freshness and aromatic expression. The grapes are sourced from limestone and schist soils, adding complexity and mineral notes to the blend. Vinification is meticulous, with gentle pressing and cold fermentation, which helps retain the wine’s subtle floral and red fruit character—think wild strawberries, grapefruit, and a hint of rose petals, all wrapped in a crisp, invigorating finish.
The Languedoc region, stretching along the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast, boasts a rich viticultural history dating back to Roman times. Long known for volume production, it has, over recent decades, refined its practices to emphasize quality and terroir expression. The region’s diverse soils—ranging from clay-limestone to schist and sandstone—combined with ample sunshine and cooling winds, create the perfect conditions for a vibrant, expressive rosé like Cote des Roses. This area is at the forefront of sustainability in French winegrowing, with many estates, including Gérard Bertrand, championing organic and biodynamic practices.
For food pairings, the lively acidity and fruit-forward profile of this rosé make it exceptionally versatile. It shines with Mediterranean cuisine—imagine a Niçoise salad, grilled vegetables, or seafood like shrimp and calamari. The wine’s freshness also makes it a delightful companion to goat cheese, charcuterie, or Provençal-style ratatouille. For a more local experience, try it alongside brandade de morue or a simple tartine of tapenade.
To fully appreciate its aromatic finesse and crispness, serve this rosé well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. Use tulip-shaped glasses to enhance its aromatic bouquet and enjoy it young for maximum vibrancy—perfect for sunny afternoons or as an aperitif with friends.
