What We're Drinking

- This pale Rose comes from France's most Mediterranean region, Provence.

The magic of such names as the Cote D'Azur and St Tropez may have increased urban development (and hence put pressure on vineyard space), but it has also attracted wealthy outsiders to invest in new vine-growing and wine-making techniques thereby raising the quality bar for all wines.

Rose production dominates the region, with much of it consumed uncritically in local bars and restaurants in conjunction with the flavoursome Provencal cuisine, with which it has a special affinity.

This particular Rose was made from Grenache and Cinsault grape varieties, but unusually also has 20 per cent Cabernet Sauvignon added to lend structure and palate weight.

The nose has soda pop and strawberry tart notes. The palate is clean and dry with cherry flavours and a very moreish, crisp finish.

Enjoy chilled with fish dishes in particular. We recommend that most Provencal of all dishes, Fish Stew, the recipe card for which is available in Waitrose, as part of our current Mediterranean Showcase promotion.

- Bernard Wilkes is assistant wine manager at Waitrose