Domaine de la Font des Pères ('Spring of the Fathers') is Caroline and Philippe Chauvin's property in Bandol. They organically farm 200 small, terraced plots on a north-facing hillside of the appellation. Most producers have south-facing vineyards, which give richer, riper wines. The style here is more lithe and lower in alcohol - just 12% for this wine. Philippe likes to say that they are "the Burgundy of Bandol". Their rosé is 55% mourvèdre, 30% grenache, and 15% cinsault. The wine ages for five months, 85% in stainless steel tanks and 15% in used barrels. The beautiful, pale coppery salmon-and-pink color is what the French call 'oeil de perdrix', or eye of partridge. A lot of Bandol rosé boasts ripeness and power; this one is all elegance and restraint, with no loss of deliciousness. It offers a delicate fruitiness with well-balanced acidity and great texture. This is a rosé that purrs. Bouillabaisse is a classic match, but most any fish preparation will make a happy partner, with bonus points for dried and fresh herbs and aioli. Or ratatouille or any of its kin.
