With mineral rich soils, 300 days of sun a year and the cooling Mistral winds, the Provence offers the ideal growing conditions for Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault grapes, the classic blend used to make AIX Rosé. Maison Saint Aix is one of the largest domaines in the AOP Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence appellation, and, at 420 metres above sea level, it is also one of the highest. Thanks to that elevation, the estate enjoys cooler nights and a stronger Mistral effect, drying the vines on dewy mornings, and making the fruit even better.

 

A sustainable combination of old and new.

The domaine’s 50 to 60-year-old Grenache vines ensure highest quality ‘jus’, while the fruit from the younger vines brings freshness. To maintain the harmony of the land, a busy replanting schedule is followed — replacing up to four hectares a year with new vines.

 

Harvesting takes place before sunrise to avoid oxidation.

In early-September, the vineyards are a frenzy of activity from very early morning to noon. Why? To ensure optimal freshness of the grapes, the conservation of the most delicate aromas and a reduced risk of oxidation. This is how the winemakers achieve AIX’s recognizable colour, delicate aromas, gentle acidity and great length.

 

Traditions belong to the future, not to the past.

Over the last 10 years, the estate has been completely overhauled from vines to cellar. Thanks to state-of-the-art-equipment – from temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to pneumatic presses to the next-generation harvesting machinery – the estate is able to reliably produce the quality of rosé that only the Provence can offer.