The 2022 Caves d'Esclans Rock Angel Rosé is a premium Côtes de Provence Rosé from Provence in southern France, created by the team behind the internationally renowned Whispering Angel. Rock Angel sits a clear step above Whispering Angel in the d'Esclans range, designed as a more serious, structured and gastronomic expression of Provence Rosé. Produced predominantly from Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle (Vermentino), the fruit comes from approximately 20–25-year-old vines grown on mid-elevation vineyards with clay and rocky soils. Unlike many simple, early-drinking Provence rosés, Rock Angel receives significant barrel treatment: approximately 70% is fermented in stainless steel and 30% in 600-litre French oak demi-muids, followed by six months of ageing with lees contact and bâtonnage, giving the wine considerably greater texture and complexity.
The 2022 shows white peach, strawberry and raspberry alongside melon, mandarin and citrus, with white flowers, Mediterranean herbs and subtle spice developing underneath. On the palate it is dry, silky and significantly more substantial than Whispering Angel, combining ripe fruit with firm acidity, creamy texture and a distinctive crushed-rock and saline mineral character. The partial barrel fermentation adds subtle smoky complexity without overwhelming the freshness of the fruit. Critical reception was excellent, with 92 Points from Decanter, 91 Points from Wine Enthusiast and 90 Points from Wine Spectator. Wine Enthusiast described the 2022 as a rich, concentrated style, while Wine Spectator highlighted its combination of melon, tangerine, crushed rock, flowers and salty minerality.
