Commanderie de la Bargemone

One of the top estates in the Coteaux d'Aix, a small, fine-wine district within the larger appellation of Provence, Bargemone produces the top-selling rosé at HPS. With more than 160 acres under vines, 2/3 of the production is dedicated to the dry rosé for which Provence is famous.

Founded by Templar knights in the 13th century, the property was named "Bargemone" after the wealthy Provencal family that owned it for 200 years. It passed from their hands in the 1800's, with the vineyards finally succumbing to phylloxera, ending, temporarily, a proud 800 year tradition of winemaking. In 1973, French industrialist Jean-Pierre Rozan purchased the property, restored the Commanderie and replanted the vineyards. Production was up to 50,000 cases/year when Jean-Pierre passed away in 2006, and a controlling interest in the vineyards and winery was sold to current owners Christian and Marina Garin (both from local Provencal families).

Since then, a new tasting room has been built, and a line of upscale wines, labeled "Cuvée Marina" and "Cuvée Elisabeth" (after Jean-Pierre Rozan's widow), have been introduced to complement the standard Bargemone offerings. With great initial reactions and great press (Robert Parker called the 2007 vintage of Cuvée Marina Rosé "one of the finest roses I have ever tasted" and the 2007 vintage of Cuvée Elisabeth Red "outstanding") expectations are high.