Why it matters
The producer
Yves Lapierre is associated with Château Saint-Hilaire in Coudoux. Estate vinification has taken place on the property since 1973. A new cellar was inaugurated in 2016.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
The south-facing vineyards extend across the slopes of the Coudoux hills between Sainte-Victoire Mountain and the Alpilles massif. Mediterranean sunshine and the Mistral influence the bunches through ripening. Château Saint-Hilaire is approximately 15 minutes from Aix-en-Provence and is associated with the Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence appellation.
Wines to know
The range in view
The estate produces rosé, white and red wines. The 2023 Château Saint-Hilaire Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence rosé is made from 30% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 25% Cinsaut and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.
The rosé was pressed under nitrogen, settled after 7 to 15 days of stabulation, fermented in stainless-steel tanks at controlled temperatures of 12 to 13°C for 15 days to 1 month, and matured in tanks. It has orchard-fruit and white-flower aromas, with a supple, fresh palate and a mouthwatering finish. White wines sit alongside it, while the red wines are mellowed by years of ageing.