When I think of Provence, what typically comes to mind is a sun-drenched, laid-back region in southeast France. Easygoing as the day is long — nothing here happens quickly nor is it meant to. Known for rolling vineyards, lavender fields, and olive groves, it’s framed by limestone hills and cooled by the strong Mistral wind blowing through the Rhône Valley and out into the Med. Château Simone isn’t trying to be anything it’s not. There’s no impetus to compete with Bordeaux’s big shots or pump out cheap reds like some Languedoc shops. It’s a stoic, under the radar star from Palette (a tiny Provencal appellation of 50ish hectares), basically a backyard compared to the heavy hitters. The region’s whites, reds, and rosés don’t play by the usual French rules — they’re too polished to fit the rough southern stereotype but too sunkissed and Provencal to hang with the aristocratic northern crowd. The Rougier family has run Château Simone since 1830, sticking to low yields and hand-harvesting, staying rooted in the terroir — not chasing trends, just carving a rare cult-wine lane. The rosé is a hidden gem, not your typical Provence pink. From 23 hectares in AOC Palette, the very old vines on grow on north-facing limestone slopes much cooler than the sun-blasted south. It’s likely Grenache and Mourvèdre with a splash of Cinsault or Syrah — the exact blend remains a secret. Vin gris in style — it’s lightly pressed and fermented in steel or oak then aged on lees for strength. In the glass it’s an enchanting deep salmon color that draws you in for a taste. A mix of strawberry, peach, and a whiff of flowers awaits with a mineral kick from the limestone soil. It’s a little dry, crisp, and has a savory twist — most definitely a food wine. In my opinion, what really sets it apart is the structure. Unlike most of the rosés from this region, Simone’s has enough backbone to age a few years, and we strongly recommend you do. Buy at least two when you can locate it — drink one now and lay one down for a warm early spring day to come. #chateausimone @rosenthalwinemerchant