Pink Flamingo Gris de Gris

^{This post has been sponsored by Domaine Royal de Jarras. All opinions expressed are my own. The following message is intended for those 21+.}

Today, we're taking a look at Domaine Royal de Jarras' Pink Flamingo Gris de Gris, which is a dry, crisp, mineral-driven rosé wine from the ancient river delta of Camargue in southern France. The Gris de Gris is an approachable, affordably priced rosé, ideal for warm-weather get-togethers.

We'll be taking a look at the region this wine is from, providing a quick overview of the winery, and of course, sampling the wine itself before offering some food pairings. Now, without further introduction, let's get to it.

Wine Overview

Quick Facts

Winery: Domaine Royal de Jarras is a historic winery, well known for its organic agriculture and sustainable winemaking efforts. The winery is located near the town of Aigues-Mortes. The estate's vineyards are planted on mineral-rich, sandy soils, with the terroir being dubbed the "vineyard of the sands."

Grape Varietals: This wine is made primarily from Grenache Gris grapes. The phrase "Gris de Gris" or "Grey of Grey" refers to the use of these pink-skinned grapes, which have been only minimally pressed to extract as little color as possible.

ABV: 12%.

Price: This bottle typically retails for around $20USD (prices can and do vary by outlet, region, and availability).

Region - Sable de Camargue, France

Sable de Camarague features an ancient river delta with sandy soils, salt marshes, and lagoons, and is swept by strong coastal winds. In other words, the area is defined by its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and the Rhone River delta.

The soils are porous and mineral-rich, making them hostile to the phylloxera aphid, which has plagued much of the world's vineyards for over a hundred years. Meanwhile, the constant sea breezes coming in from the Mediterranean imparts salinity and minerality to the grapes, contributing to the wine's characteristic crispness. Salt flats, lagoons, and marshes further enhance the defining features of the region's grapes.

In terms of weather, the area's climate is thoroughly Mediterranean, featuring long and hot summer days, mild winters, and copious sea breeze. Though the summers are dry, the humidity of the vineyards is regulated by the Mediterranean, which means slow and even ripening for the grapes.

Aromatic and Tasting Notes

On the Nose

Deliciously fruity. Off the top of the glass, there are aromas of ripe stone fruit and juicy wild strawberries. Hints of white peach, apricot, and cranberry manifest on the second whiff. Zesty citrus, with plenty of lemon and tangerine, frames the fruit notes. Subtle aromas of white flowers and jasmine manifest deeper into the glass, with a hint of something herbal lingering in the background. Very pleasant, and very approachable.

On the Palate

On sampling, red fruit is front and center. There's lush wild strawberry followed by pleasantly tart berry notes, and plenty of redcurrants. Stone fruit, especially white peach and ripe pear, are present throughout. On second taste, there's a bit of citrus, especially grapefruit and lemon zest. Acidity is overall very well balanced, carried on a supple mouthfeel.

Finish

The word that first came to mind is 'clean.' Very crisp, very refreshing.

Food Pairings

Grilled Fish: A thoroughly by-the-book pairing. This wine would be ideal alongside grilled salmon or red mullet, especially when prepared with an herb and lemon butter sauce.
Salad: Fresh, simple leafy green salads would also be delicious. Think of something like my fried paneer salad.
Charcuterie: This wine adores a good charcuterie board with cured meats like prosciutto or salami. My go-to cheeses would be either Comté or gruyère for this particular wine, though goat cheese or fresh mozzarella would also pair nicely - especially alongside fresh basil and fennel.

Wine Score and Verdict

The Score

For a very solid value-to-quality ratio, I'll award today's bottle a respectable 89 out of 100. Its pleasant fruit notes and refreshing finish make this an ideal summer bottle, one that's easily paired with most of our favorite summer meals. With an easy-to-appreciate bouquet and flavor profile, coupled with a supremely approachable price point, this is a definite recommendation.

Who is this wine for?

Given how this wine is very light and refreshing, with a solid value-to-quality ratio, I'll say that this is an easy drinking bottle, intended for casual get-togethers - especially summer events. If you're looking for a decent introduction to rosé wines or an approachable, affordable rosé wine for your next casual get-together, this wine is for you.

Where to Buy

All the usual big wine outlets. My top picks would probably be BuyWinesOnline.com and AllStarWine.com, both of which have this wine in stock as of the posting date of this article.

And that's our review of the Pink Flamingo Gris de Gris. If you tried this wine or enjoyed our review, be sure to let us know in the comments below. We always love hearing from you.

Cheers!