The wine greets you with a delicate nose which hints at strawberry, white peach, and golden raspberry. The very first sip shows the finesse of this wine.
Vintage and Winemaker Notes
The first premium “Methode Provençal” California Rosé. Élan and Julien Fayard founded Azur Wines, and became the first producer to bring the true and authentic Provençal technique of Rosé wine production to the United States. Since the first vintage in 2007, Azur Rosé has been comprised of grapes selected and harvested for 100% dedicated Rosé wine production.
Our philosophy is to produce wines that express pure, terroir-driven specificities and characteristics. Wine style is a combined expression of the fruit, soil, vines, and climate.
“As a winemaker, my job is to bring out the best qualities that the vines have provided. I don’t seek to make a style of wine but more so to make wine that sings of its place, it’s history and it’s uniqueness. That’s my goal as a winemaker, to make wines that are pure expressions of their environment and not mask it. Wines with an identity.” – Winemaker Julien Fayard
To produce the highest quality wines, the origin of quality expressed through the vineyards, the fruit and very production practices determine a good wine from a great wine. We wanted to create the highest quality wines representative of our two cultures, French & American. Emphasis on vineyard selection, farming and fruit maturity is key.
The wines we produce reflect our dedication to haute quality with expressive layers of details and distinct flavors.
Available States
AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
The first thing I noticed upon seeing the bottle was the beautiful golden color. It was not at all pink like I was expecting. I popped it in the fridge overnight so I could enjoy it the next day as soon as I got home from work. I was super excited to try this wine because I’m always on the hunt for a rose I like. For reference, I’m a big fan of Maryhill’s rose of Sangiovese (‘15 & ‘17 are all-time favs) and Kiona’s rose of Mouvedre (always solid IMO). I have also found success with any rose of Lemberger in the red mountains. I’m tough to please in the rose department, know that going in.
Upon first sniff, I am getting a very sweet peach. The fiance argues that it smells like apricot. Oh well, similar enough so we agree that it smells like stone fruit of some kind though it’s very light.
The first sip is very dry and I’m literally not tasting anything. Fiance agrees; can’t find any distinct flavor of any kind. All I can say at this point is it’s very dry and very neutral.
I poured another glass after dinner. It definitely smells less sweet, but still very subtle notes of fruit. There is no real taste to this wine. It’s the strangest thing. After dinner, I tasted a little tartness upon swallowing, a bit like grapefruit if I’m reaching, with a hint of butter aftertaste that kind of coats the mouth.
I had noted a price guess at $10-$15 so pleased to see it near that price point. This is a steal because it’s listed on the winery’s site for $36/bottle.
@origamipenguins Wondering, since it came out of the fridge initially, how it evolved as it warmed?
Cold would likely attenuate both nose and palate; did it not open as it shook off the cold, or just remain a muted one or two note affair?
I had noted a price guess at $10-$15 . . .this is a steal because it’s listed on the winery’s site for $36/bottle.
I love the notes, but we need to have a talk about a steal. I could start a winery fermenting Welch’s juice and MSRP $100 bottles, but 3 buck chuck would not be a “steal.”
It sounds like it drinks really well for a 10-15 bottle, which it is. Don’t gussy it up due to a completely arbitrary MSRP.
@KNmeh7 totally fair. Initially wanted to say that I was surprised to see it at $36/bottle on their site but went with the softer language instead. I would be hard pressed to pay over $10 for it personally.
@origamipenguins THIS is what us rats want to hear. I’ve gotten lucky twice, but neither times have I ordered. Maybe I will fall out of favor, but I prefer the honesty. Thanks!
Don’t gussy it up due to a completely arbitrary MSRP.
Or because it’s in some fancy bottle.
It’s not always easy to compose a rat report, especially for a meh bottle; not saying this one is, but just generally. Many here can read between the lines, but not all. Honesty is always best. I’d prefer to not purchase and miss out than buy on a fluffy report and be disappointed. No favor for the community or WD’s cred. Just call it like it is, allowing for your personal dis/likes hopefully not coloring the bottle.
We really should get that Lab Ratting a bottle… thread more active with thoughts on how to deal with topics like this.
@rjquillin As awesome as getting the golden ticket is, there is a bit of anxiety. It isn’t a free bottle; it is an obligation. I believe there have been samples sent to winemakers. Any aged cab to rpm. Those experts should do what they do.
I did not see your thread about lab ratting (nor did I get an e-mail saying it was on the way) but maybe this is a good time to set a rubric/scale for the rats?
There are enough wine makers that participate (and that is awesome) and the standard scales that I believe we could find a community consensus of what a rat should look for and report.
It could be financed with the leftovers after you pay chipgreen to make a better sharing site.
@KNmeh7@rjquillin wow! Thanks for the feedback! Felt pretty confident my review was honest without being rude, but here we are. Glad to have had a chance to review a bottle either way.
Will update more later, in a rush but wanted to share first thoughts on my first pour (just picked it up from FedEx and didn’t have time to let it cool properly, just half an hour in the fridge)… with that said:
This rose delivers on what it says. Delicate yet well-structured rose with a lovely medium body that doesn’t fall apart when you’re swirling around your mouth. Definite white peach in a delightful way, reminded me of flowers as well; those not keen on strong stone fruit need not be afraid. Robust acidity is what I’m going to say for now, I’m a fan of acid and enjoy it here, it’s not too powerful. Overall balanced, well-rounded, light fruit and great body.
Will have more to say in a couple hours when properly chilled and I have more time!
OKAY! Full report (now that it’s properly chilled):
Gorgeous light orange hue in the glass. Relatively faint but refreshing nose; maybe fresh melon and peach.
Rounded, delicate mouthfeel with a finished marked by acid, if not alcohol–not overwhelmingly so, but it’s prominent. I personally love roses that drink like lightly flavored water (rosewater, if you will). This rose definitely fits into that category (save the finish, which isn’t in my book a total dealbreaker and is remedied by just drinking more!). It definitely carries characteristics that provencal roses are known for, and I think would please those who enjoy provence rose. White peach is really all I get fruit wise.
Overall a nice rose that I think would be a great start to a dinner party. Its finish isn’t as clean as I’d like and thus I’d hesitate to want to rely on this as a porch pounder/for a multi-glass sitting. However, what it does accomplish in achieving that rosewater-type thing (minimal fruit, lovely mouthfeel) is great. The more I drink, though, the more a residue seems to build on my palette that I don’t love. If you tend to share your bottles and have only a glass or two per bottle, this could be fantastic, but for the price, I think there are better options if you’re looking for something reliable and more flexible for different situations.
Thank you for enjoying our Azur Rose! It came out of much passion and dedication to produce a quality driven wine not just an after thought to a red wine. We appreciate your support as family owned and operated winery and sharing your comments. Cheers! Elan Fayard
Tasting Notes
The wine greets you with a delicate nose which hints at strawberry, white peach, and golden raspberry. The very first sip shows the finesse of this wine.
Vintage and Winemaker Notes
The first premium “Methode Provençal” California Rosé. Élan and Julien Fayard founded Azur Wines, and became the first producer to bring the true and authentic Provençal technique of Rosé wine production to the United States. Since the first vintage in 2007, Azur Rosé has been comprised of grapes selected and harvested for 100% dedicated Rosé wine production.
Specifications
Price Comparison
$539.18/case (including shipping) at Azur Wines
About The Winery
Our philosophy is to produce wines that express pure, terroir-driven specificities and characteristics. Wine style is a combined expression of the fruit, soil, vines, and climate.
“As a winemaker, my job is to bring out the best qualities that the vines have provided. I don’t seek to make a style of wine but more so to make wine that sings of its place, it’s history and it’s uniqueness. That’s my goal as a winemaker, to make wines that are pure expressions of their environment and not mask it. Wines with an identity.” – Winemaker Julien Fayard
To produce the highest quality wines, the origin of quality expressed through the vineyards, the fruit and very production practices determine a good wine from a great wine. We wanted to create the highest quality wines representative of our two cultures, French & American. Emphasis on vineyard selection, farming and fruit maturity is key.
The wines we produce reflect our dedication to haute quality with expressive layers of details and distinct flavors.
Available States
AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Estimated Delivery
Monday, Jul 1 - Wednesday, Jul 3
Azur Dry Rosé
3 bottles for $54.99 $18.33/bottle + $2.67/bottle shipping
Case of 12 for $159.99 $13.33/bottle + $1/bottle shipping
2017 Azur Dry Rosé
I’ve been waiting for a rose and the beautiful bottle will make this one taste even better!
/giphy restorative-sly-pork
The first Provencal rose producer? What does that mean?
@klezman Direct press rose production, which is the preferred method in Provence.
@klezman @michaelvella Is direct press all that uncommon in the States?
@michaelvella @rjquillin
Pretty sure I’ve had direct press rose from the USA since well before 2007. But whatever. It’s a fun sounding origin story.
@klezman @rjquillin Not sure, TBH. Probably not. Maybe at one time it was.
How much more are you saving by buying a full case?
(Note: Tax & Shipping not included in savings calculations)
2017 Azur Dry Rosé - $60 = 27.26%
That is a fancy bottle! Need to stop spending, but would take a few off of someone in Columbus if they would care to share.
Love to share with someone in Hampton Roads, VA?
Snagged a case based on the pretty bottle…makes a nice gift or a take-with wine for get-togethers. Any SE MI peeps want some just let me know!
@kasandrae ok, add to my list?
@ttboy23 absolutely!
The first thing I noticed upon seeing the bottle was the beautiful golden color. It was not at all pink like I was expecting. I popped it in the fridge overnight so I could enjoy it the next day as soon as I got home from work. I was super excited to try this wine because I’m always on the hunt for a rose I like. For reference, I’m a big fan of Maryhill’s rose of Sangiovese (‘15 & ‘17 are all-time favs) and Kiona’s rose of Mouvedre (always solid IMO). I have also found success with any rose of Lemberger in the red mountains. I’m tough to please in the rose department, know that going in.
Upon first sniff, I am getting a very sweet peach. The fiance argues that it smells like apricot. Oh well, similar enough so we agree that it smells like stone fruit of some kind though it’s very light.
The first sip is very dry and I’m literally not tasting anything. Fiance agrees; can’t find any distinct flavor of any kind. All I can say at this point is it’s very dry and very neutral.
I poured another glass after dinner. It definitely smells less sweet, but still very subtle notes of fruit. There is no real taste to this wine. It’s the strangest thing. After dinner, I tasted a little tartness upon swallowing, a bit like grapefruit if I’m reaching, with a hint of butter aftertaste that kind of coats the mouth.
I had noted a price guess at $10-$15 so pleased to see it near that price point. This is a steal because it’s listed on the winery’s site for $36/bottle.
Some real-life photos!
@origamipenguins Wondering, since it came out of the fridge initially, how it evolved as it warmed?
Cold would likely attenuate both nose and palate; did it not open as it shook off the cold, or just remain a muted one or two note affair?
@rjquillin As it warmed, I would say it became more acidic. That’s likely where the very subtle notes of grapefruit showed up.
@origamipenguins
I had noted a price guess at $10-$15 . . .this is a steal because it’s listed on the winery’s site for $36/bottle.
I love the notes, but we need to have a talk about a steal. I could start a winery fermenting Welch’s juice and MSRP $100 bottles, but 3 buck chuck would not be a “steal.”
It sounds like it drinks really well for a 10-15 bottle, which it is. Don’t gussy it up due to a completely arbitrary MSRP.
@KNmeh7 totally fair. Initially wanted to say that I was surprised to see it at $36/bottle on their site but went with the softer language instead. I would be hard pressed to pay over $10 for it personally.
@origamipenguins THIS is what us rats want to hear. I’ve gotten lucky twice, but neither times have I ordered. Maybe I will fall out of favor, but I prefer the honesty. Thanks!
@KNmeh7 @origamipenguins
Or because it’s in some fancy bottle.
It’s not always easy to compose a rat report, especially for a meh bottle; not saying this one is, but just generally. Many here can read between the lines, but not all. Honesty is always best. I’d prefer to not purchase and miss out than buy on a fluffy report and be disappointed. No favor for the community or WD’s cred. Just call it like it is, allowing for your personal dis/likes hopefully not coloring the bottle.
We really should get that Lab Ratting a bottle… thread more active with thoughts on how to deal with topics like this.
@rjquillin As awesome as getting the golden ticket is, there is a bit of anxiety. It isn’t a free bottle; it is an obligation. I believe there have been samples sent to winemakers. Any aged cab to rpm. Those experts should do what they do.
I did not see your thread about lab ratting (nor did I get an e-mail saying it was on the way) but maybe this is a good time to set a rubric/scale for the rats?
There are enough wine makers that participate (and that is awesome) and the standard scales that I believe we could find a community consensus of what a rat should look for and report.
It could be financed with the leftovers after you pay chipgreen to make a better sharing site.
VAN GOGH! MANGO! TANGO! AWESOME!
@KNmeh7 @rjquillin wow! Thanks for the feedback! Felt pretty confident my review was honest without being rude, but here we are. Glad to have had a chance to review a bottle either way.
@KNmeh7 @origamipenguins
I bumped the Rat Report thread so we can keep this one more on the wine, with report thoughts over there.
Unusually shaped bottles are cool and all, but they don’t fit well in racks and coolers meant for Standard sized bottles.
Will update more later, in a rush but wanted to share first thoughts on my first pour (just picked it up from FedEx and didn’t have time to let it cool properly, just half an hour in the fridge)… with that said:
This rose delivers on what it says. Delicate yet well-structured rose with a lovely medium body that doesn’t fall apart when you’re swirling around your mouth. Definite white peach in a delightful way, reminded me of flowers as well; those not keen on strong stone fruit need not be afraid. Robust acidity is what I’m going to say for now, I’m a fan of acid and enjoy it here, it’s not too powerful. Overall balanced, well-rounded, light fruit and great body.
Will have more to say in a couple hours when properly chilled and I have more time!
OKAY! Full report (now that it’s properly chilled):
Gorgeous light orange hue in the glass. Relatively faint but refreshing nose; maybe fresh melon and peach.
Rounded, delicate mouthfeel with a finished marked by acid, if not alcohol–not overwhelmingly so, but it’s prominent. I personally love roses that drink like lightly flavored water (rosewater, if you will). This rose definitely fits into that category (save the finish, which isn’t in my book a total dealbreaker and is remedied by just drinking more!). It definitely carries characteristics that provencal roses are known for, and I think would please those who enjoy provence rose. White peach is really all I get fruit wise.
Overall a nice rose that I think would be a great start to a dinner party. Its finish isn’t as clean as I’d like and thus I’d hesitate to want to rely on this as a porch pounder/for a multi-glass sitting. However, what it does accomplish in achieving that rosewater-type thing (minimal fruit, lovely mouthfeel) is great. The more I drink, though, the more a residue seems to build on my palette that I don’t love. If you tend to share your bottles and have only a glass or two per bottle, this could be fantastic, but for the price, I think there are better options if you’re looking for something reliable and more flexible for different situations.
@AzurWines thanks for the offering, this is a great rose!