2023 Matthieu Barret Petit Ours Rosé

Region: Cornas < Ardeche < France

Grapes: Grenache

Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Organic/biodynamic farming, argilo-calcareous soils with lots of pebbly rocks; direct press fruit, ages 8 months in concrete eggs; bottled unfined/unfiltered with the tiniest whisper of added So2; 12.5% ABV

Winemaker: Matthieu Barret

• From the Ardeche, part of northern Rhône mostly known for the famous AOC wines of Cornas and St. Joseph
• 7th generation vigneron Matthieu (nicknamed the Little Bear, or Petit Ours) took over the family estate in Cornas from grandpa at age 23
• A big believer in biodiversity, he creates ‘green spaces’ around the farm, digging watering holes to nourish a diverse ecosystem of vines, forest, meadow, and woodland. No machines\ are used, only mules, horses and human hands
• Inspired by the famous pinks of Tavel
• Drinks like a brooding Bandol rosé
• Serious, deep, herbal vibes on a bed of plush, velvety red fruit, plum and baking spice