Located in the scenic French region of Provence, Chateau d’Esclans is an absolute “must see” when it comes to European vineyards and estates. With tours available year-round, wine aficionados are welcome to wander the grounds, learn about the estate’s winemaking process, and – of course – sample some of the region’s most incredible wines. Plan your French wine country getaway and learn more about Chateau d’Esclans with these fun facts every wine lover should know.
1. Chateau d’Esclans is home to Whispering Angel rosé.
A favorite wine choice among Grace Ormonde Wedding Style couples, Whispering Angel was created at Chateau d’Esclans to bring “the St. Tropez rosé lifestyle” to the rest of the world.
2. The Chateau d’Esclans wine collection includes several different brands.
Along with Whispering Angel rosé, the estate also produces Rock Angel rosé, Les Clans rosé, Garrus rosé, Déesse Diane red wine with dark fruits and spice, and Déesse Astrée vermentino.
3. Grapes are harvested at a specific time of day.
At Chateau d’Esclans, grapes are only harvested between sunrise and noon in order to avoid the day’s heat.
4. There’s no big bushels allowed.
During the harvest, grapes are stored in small, ten kilo crates so the grapes at the bottom don’t get crushed.
5. The fermentation process blends tradition with modern techniques.
Depending on the grade of juice produced by the grapes, the Chateau d’Esclans winemakers will use either traditional barrels or a stainless steel variety for the fermentation process.
6. The Chateau d’Esclans cellar dates back to the 12th century.
The earliest accounts of the original chateau dates back to 1201, when Gérard De Villeneuve was gifted with the property by the Comte de Provence. Today, the cellar is the only remaining part of the original chateau and is known as the oldest structure in the region.
7. The property is massive.
Chateau d’Esclans has a total of 659 acres – 108, of which, are vineyards.
8. It’s all about the Grenache.
The vineyards produce a variety of grapes including Vermentino, Cinsault, Merlot, and Syrah – but Chateau d’Esclans’ signature grape is Grenache. Due to the land’s elevation, some of the grape vines are as old as 90 years, resulting in a greater concentration of flavor than younger vines.
9. Whispering Angel is the rosé of choice for luxury yachts.
The signature Chateau d’Esclans brand can always be found on board luxury yachts in St. Tropez and beyond. Whispering Angel was even the rosé of choice for events benefiting the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.
10. Provence is the heartland of rosé.
It’s impossible to be both, a savvy traveler and a lover of rosé, without paying a visit to Provence and seeing the Chateau d’Esclans winemaking process in action. The smallest details are carefully implemented – such as pressing the red-skinned grapes with just enough grape skin to achieve the right color and flavor complexity. A visit to the chateau and the stunning surrounding region is the ultimate wine-centered experience.
