2025 Chateau d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rose

Sacha Lichine settled in La Motte-en-Provence in 2006 and purchased Château d'Esclans from a Swedish family. Sacha is the son of the world-famous winemaker and author Alexis Lichine. It may sound arrogant, but his goal was to create the best rosé in the world, one that could rival the top Montrachets. To achieve this ambition, he left the vinification to Patrick Léon, Mouton Rothschild's winemaker for 23 years. As a result, Whispering Angel, for example, has sold out in record time for years. At the end of November, Château d'Esclans was named 'European Winery of the Year 2014' by Wine Enthusiast magazine. This is the first time in history that a winery that primarily produces rosé wines has been honored with this 'Oscar for Wines'.

The Whispering Angel is one of the most popular rosés internationally and, alongside the cult rosé Garrus, the wine that earned Château d'Esclans worldwide fame. This rosé owes its name to the small chapel on the estate, where two whispering angels are depicted on the wall. This image also appears on the Whispering Angel's label.

Region, climate and location

The vineyards are located in the Côtes de Provence, where sunny days alternate with the cooling influences of the sea and mistral. The soils consist primarily of clay and limestone, which contribute to freshness and structure. The Mediterranean climate produces ripe fruit, while nighttime cooling maintains tension and aromatic clarity. This combination is essential for a rosé with balance and length.

Whispering Angel and the 20th Anniversary

Whispering Angel played a key role in the international revaluation of rosé and is considered a benchmark within the Côtes de Provence. The 2025 vintage marks Whispering Angel's 20th anniversary and will be released as a special Anniversary Edition. This edition features a revised presentation with a checkered capsule and the return of the iconic angels to the label. The anniversary packaging reflects two decades of influence and recognition, while the wine's style remains true to its signature freshness, precision, and elegance.

Vineyards

The grapes come from select plots across the appellation, with clay and limestone soils. These soils restrict the vine's vigor and contribute to aromatic concentration. By working with multiple vineyards, the blend can be fine-tuned for freshness, texture, and balance.

Grape varieties and composition

The blend consists of Grenache, Cinsault, Rolle, and a small amount of Syrah. Grenache provides ripe fruit and volume, Cinsault adds finesse and freshness, Rolle adds structure and tension, while Syrah contributes subtle spice. The composition focuses on a dry style with refined body.

Harvest

Harvest takes place at night to preserve freshness and aromatic precision. The lower temperatures maintain vibrant acidity and limit oxidation. After harvest, an optical sorting takes place to select only perfectly ripe grapes.

Vinification

After gentle pressing, fermentation follows at a low temperature. Vinification takes place in stainless steel tanks, with maturation in tank for approximately three months. This approach focuses on preserving primary aromas, clear fruit expression, and a precise structure, without the influence of wood.

Maturation

Maturation takes place entirely in stainless steel. No wood is used, so that freshness, texture, and aromatic clarity remain paramount. The wine is bottled relatively young to preserve its vibrant style.

Color, smell and taste

The color is a very light salmon pink. The wine is expressive on the nose, with notes of citrus and red fruit, supported by a fresh and lively impression. On the palate, the wine is remarkably smooth and silky, with fine persistence. The fresh acidity provides structure and ensures an energetic, precise finish with distinct tension and length.

Development and drinking window

Whispering Angel 2025 is meant to be enjoyed young, when freshness and aromatic clarity are at their peak. The wine typically retains its quality for two to three years after bottling, provided it is kept cool. Served at 8 to 10 degrees Celsius, the balance is at its best. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

Summary of professional reviews

Professional tasters appreciate Whispering Angel for its consistent style, refined texture, and bright aroma. The 2025 vintage is considered an energetic and balanced edition, combining ripe fruit and freshness. Even in this anniversary edition, the wine remains a firm benchmark within Provence rosé.

The full review texts can be found in the Professional Reviews tab.

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you this information when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, right next to the A16 motorway, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings

• Sea bass ceviche with lime and coriander, where the fresh acidity and tension complement each other well.
• Grilled prawns with a light herb dressing, matching the silky texture.
• Tomato, burrata and olive oil salad, which enhances the freshness and softness.
• Veal tartare with capers and citrus peel, which complements the precise structure beautifully.
• Roasted fennel with orange and almond, which respects the light minerality.