At a glance

Producer

Clos Cibonne

Region

Côtes de Provence, Provence, France

Grape variety

Tibouren (predominantly, often with small amounts of Grenache per AOC rules)

Wine type

Rosé

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$55 USD

Tasting profile

Saline red berries, blood orange, subtle herbal notes with distinct savory, umami and light florality. Unique oxidative style from aging under fleurette (thin veil of yeast).

Evolution: Gains earthy, dried fruit and nutty notes; characteristic roundness and umami increase with 2-5 years age.

At peak: Peaks with dried citrus, incense spice, marzipan, and saline lift; extraordinary for a Provence rosé.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high

Tannins

Low

Alcohol

13-13.5%

Aging potential

Known for exceptional ageability (5-8 years for the rosé, longer for reds)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2026

Optimal window

2023 to 2027

Current status

Approaching maturity but can age further

Current condition

Fresh, vivid, and aromatic but gaining complexity

Clos Cibonne's practice of aging Tibouren rosé under a yeast veil (similar to Sherry's flor) endows the wine with an uncommon longevity and evolving savory complexity. Most Provence rosé is best young, but Clos Cibonne is legendary for developing tertiary, nutty, and earthy notes with proper cellaring. The 2020 vintage should reach its aromatic and textural peak between 2024 and 2026, but can perform well up to 2028.

Food pairing

Bouillabaisse, Mediterranean grilled fish, tapenade, roasted root vegetables, charcuterie, Provençal cuisine.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Use of indigenous yeasts, minimal chemical intervention, dry-farming in most parcels, natural vegetation cover, manual harvest, solar panels for partial energy needs, lighter glass bottles, recyclable packaging. Vineyard is coastal—emphasis on biodiversity.

Clos Cibonne demonstrates robust sustainability focus via HVE3 certification, ongoing conversion to organics, dry farming, and ecosystem preservation. Full organic conversion is incremental and as of 2020 not yet certified. Producer invests in energy efficiency (solar, lighter packaging). Transportation footprint is higher on exported bottles; European consumers enjoy significantly lower carbon impact. Overall, Clos Cibonne is a leader in sustainable Mediterranean viticulture, though not yet net-zero.