Domaines Ott By.Ott Rosé 2023 - 75cl

By.Ott is Domaines Ott's more relaxed Provence rosé — a still wine, not a sparkling one — and the entry point to a house that has set the tone for pale southern French pink for decades. It is Côtes de Provence, drawn from Ott's vineyard holdings and made to drink young and cold.

The 2023 blend is led by Grenache at around 60%, filled out with Cinsault, and given a little backbone by small amounts of Syrah and Mourvèdre. Grenache brings the red-fruited generosity, Cinsault the lift and delicacy, the darker grapes a touch of structure underneath. The colour is classic Provence — pale, crystalline pink with the faintest orange cast.

The nose is delicate and stone-fruited: white peach and apricot, a little passion fruit and mango, fresh flowers behind. The palate is dry, crisp and fuller than the pale colour suggests, red berries and citrus zest lifted by a whisper of sweet spice and a saline edge that keeps you coming back. The finish is clean and gently persistent, with more length than most rosé at this level.

This is warm-weather drinking — apéritif hour, long lunches, anything eaten outdoors. It is the sort of bottle you buy by the case in June and don't think twice about opening.

How to Serve

Serve well chilled at 8-10°C in a white-wine glass, which flatters Provence rosé more than a small tumbler. Drink it young; 2023 is showing beautifully now.

Where to Drink It

Scott's, Mount Street — Provence rosé at the raw bar. The Wolseley, Piccadilly — a glass with a light lunch. The River Cafe, Hammersmith — terrace, sunshine, southern French pink.

Food Pairings

Grilled sea bass, or goat's cheese with a summer salad.