A discreet and tightly defined appellation, Sable de Camargue is devoted entirely to rosé — more precisely, to Gris and Gris de Gris. What sets it apart is its exceptional location, flanked by two dream destinations that most French wine regions would envy: the untamed beauty of the Camargue and the medieval charm of Aigues-Mortes.
Picture this: wild horses, stoic gardians, pink flamingos, and shimmering salt marshes on one side; on the other, ramparts echoing with Crusader lore, the Carbonnière Tower, and the aroma of local fougasses. Now add to that picture a collection of wines officially elevated to AOP status in 2023, shedding their former IGP label to better reflect the unique terroir they come from. Managed by a producers’ union founded in 1971 and restructured as an ODG in 2009, the appellation now champions a mosaic of nearly 3,000 hectares of unspoiled land between sky and sea, cultivated by 89 winegrowers.
At first glance, these rosés might appear to blend seamlessly into the sea of anonymous pink wines flooding the market. But a closer taste reveals a surprising signature—an elegant translation of sun-drenched sand and Mediterranean sea spray into the glass. With their pale salmon hue, they strike a fine balance on the palate: round, fresh, and subtly saline. Made predominantly from Grenache noir and gris, the grapes are gently and swiftly pressed to retain their vibrant aromatic spectrum and delicate skin pigments. The result is a refreshing medley of summer stone fruits, pomelo, mango, lychee, and red berries, often lifted by floral and mineral notes.
Here are two standout examples of this emerging stylistic renaissance from the AOP Sable de Camargue:
This elegantly pale rosé with classic salmon reflections opens with an inviting nose of fresh red fruit—think strawberry and raspberry in a sunlit basket. The palate is equally enticing, led by zesty, tangy notes and the aromatic depth of ripe Grenache. A touch of Merlot (over 20%) adds texture and depth, resulting in a vibrant and harmonious wine. A clear success.
A graceful expression of Grenache gris rooted in a terroir brushed by Mediterranean breezes. The nose charms with soft aromas of red berries and white flowers, while the palate offers a fresh, almost herbal vibrancy, with subtle echoes of stone fruits and apricot. A perfect partner for dishes like salt cod brandade or a classic pissaladière.
Make no mistake—these Gris and Gris de Gris, born of sandy soils under maritime influence, are not just pretty pink wines. They carry a sense of place, offering a compelling alternative to mass-market rosés. With lower alcohol, distinct character, and real craftsmanship, they’re poised to win over both health-conscious drinkers and wine lovers seeking authenticity in every glass.
Henry Clemens
A Chigny-les-Roses, village de la montagne de Reims, Arnaud et Sophie Gounel
