Provence Château Bellini
Château Bellini is the brainchild of Tom Bove, the American engineer and businessman–turned–wine producer, who seems to have a gilded touch with his vineyards and properties. His first, Miraval, was famously bought by Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, whilst his second, La Mascaronne, was bought by Château cos d’Estournel just last year; luckily he has kept hold of Château Bellini and is still working his magic there. The domain has a fascinating history. It was originally established along the roman road “Via Aurelia” in the heart of Provincia during the 10th Century. The château is situated on a broad rounded cliff overlooking a large watery area called a Fontlade. It was frequented by the Counts of Provence who were resident in nearby Brignoles. It has also given shelter to the famed philosopher St Thomas Aquinas in 1252.
Vineyard
The Bellini vineyard occupies roughly 35 hectares of chalk and clay terraces which are covered in small stones and surrounded by oak forests. This region has a continental climate of hot dry summers with cool nights followed by relatively cold winters with substantial frost and pleasant days. These ideal conditions have led to its long tradition of wine making, originating with the Ligurians, followed by the Romans and now by Tom Bove.
Wines
In 2016 a complete renovation work was started to restore the estate back to its original beauty during which Tom found an engraving of the huntress Dianna which can now be seen on the label of their Château Bellini rosé coteaux Varois Provence. This same rosé was ranked 3rd in a list of top 30 Provence rosés for summer by Elizabeth Gabay MW for Decanter, September 2021 edition.
‘A complex blend of Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon and white Clairette, it’s fresh, weighty and lively, with hints of creamy peaches, ripe wild berries and just a whisper of citrus. In short, it’s absolutely spot on.’ Jonathan Ray, drinks editor for The Spectator
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