In the South of France, ordering a piscine de rosé (literally “swimming pool of rosé”) refers to a large glass of rosé wine served over a generous amount of ice cubes. Typically, it’s a chilled Provençal rosé, pale and dry, poured into a oversized wine glass or tumbler filled with ice to keep it refreshing in the hot climate. The term “piscine” playfully evokes the idea of a big, pool-like serving, though it’s usually a standard 250–300 ml pour.
This style of service is iconic in places like Saint-Tropez and is associated with laid-back, glamorous settings like beachside bars or yacht parties. It’s not a cocktail or a diluted drink but simply rosé on ice, emphasizing refreshment. Some purists frown on icing wine, but it’s a beloved tradition in the region, especially during summer. You might hear locals order it as “une piscine” for short, and it’s often paired with light snacks like olives or charcuterie.
Piscine de Rosé Popularity in the South of France
Rosé is a cultural icon in the South of France, particularly in Provence, where it represents 90% of wine production. Its popularity stems from its versatility, pairing well with local cuisine like bouillabaisse, tapenade, and grilled seafood, and its refreshing profile, ideal for the warm Mediterranean climate. The region’s lifestyle—centered around outdoor dining, coastal vacations, and leisure—has cemented rosé as the drink of choice. Saint-Tropez, Nice, and Cannes are hotspots where rosé flows freely at beach clubs, cafés, and vineyards.
The wine’s aesthetic appeal, with its pale pink hues, and its marketing as a chic, approachable drink have fueled its dominance. Events like the annual “Rosé Day” in Provence and winery tourism (e.g., Château d’Esclans, home of Whispering Angel and Chateau Berne) draw crowds. Rosé’s popularity extends beyond locals to international visitors, with exports to the U.S. and U.K. skyrocketing since the 2010s. In 2022, Provence rosé exports to the U.S. alone were valued at over $150 million.
History of French Rosé Wine
French rosé wine has ancient roots, dating back to the Greeks who brought grapevines to southern France around 600 BCE. The earliest wines produced in the region, particularly around Marseille, were likely pale reds or rosés due to shorter maceration times, where grape skins are left in contact with the juice for only a brief period. This method contrasted with the deeper reds developed later. By the Roman era, the region of Provence was a significant wine-producing area, and rosé-like wines were common.
In the Middle Ages, Provençal wines gained fame, with rosé remaining a staple due to its refreshing qualities suited to the Mediterranean climate. The modern style of pale, dry rosé emerged in the 19th century, particularly in Provence, as winemakers refined techniques to produce crisp, light wines. The 20th century saw rosé’s reputation grow, especially after World War II, when tourism boomed in the South of France. Rosé became synonymous with the relaxed, sunny lifestyle of the French Riviera.
The global popularity of French rosé, especially from Provence, surged in the early 2000s. By 2023, rosé accounted for about 10% of global wine consumption, with France producing 30% of the world’s rosé, predominantly from Provence, Languedoc-Roussillon, and the Rhône Valley. Provence alone produces 40% of France’s rosé, with appellations like Côtes de Provence, Bandol, and Tavel leading the charge. Tavel, in the Rhône, is notable for its exclusively rosé production, often deeper in color and more structured.
Cheers!
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