The Camargue is situated along the coast of southern France south of the city of Arles between two forks of the Rhône River. The Petite-Rhône forms the western boundary and the Grande-Rhône forms the eastern boundary of what is the largest river delta in western Europe. You may be familiar with the Camargue horse, a stocky, grey breed indigenous to the area. Large salty lagoons and surrounding marshlands in the Camargue are home to a diverse list of wildlife and birds, including the greater flamingo.
The Petite-Camargue lies just to the west of the Petite-Rhone River, south of the city of Aigues-Mortes — this is the location of Domaine Royal de Jarras, the winery that makes Pink Flamingo Gris de Gris. It boasts sandy soils, an island location and organic viticulture.
Don’t let the fun and flirty flamingo label fool you into thinking this isn’t a serious wine. According to the Society of Wine Educators, the region has long been known for making a light-colored gris-style of wine. Until October 2023 the wines were classified as Vin de Pay (Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP)), but since then have been recognized as Sable de Camargue Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) designation.
Sable de Camargue AOC wines may only be very light-colored rosé — either vin gris or vin gris de gris. Vin gris wines may be made using several red and white grape varieties (see the SWE link above), but the vin gris de gris may be may using only Grenache Gris (a light-skinned mutation of Grenache). Both styles of wine permit only very brief skin contact. We received this wine as a tasting sample.
2023 Pink Flamingo Gris de Gris, Sable de Camargue AOC — very pale salmon with aromas of blackberries, stone fruit and citrus zest. Flavors include mixed berries, ripe pears, citrus and stony minerality all supported by juicy acidity. The wine is dry with a long, refreshing finish. 12.5% abv. SRP $16.99
Per the technical sheet for this wine, Domaine Royal de Jarras’ vineyards are certified organic. It is made using the first pressing of the Grenache Gris grapes then fermented at controlled temperatures. The 2023 Pink Flamingo Gris de Gris is labeled Made with Organic Grapes (in very tiny print on the back label), which means the grapes are certified organic and sulfur dioxide may be used during winemaking, with the finished wine containing less than 100 ppm of sulfites.
Pink Flamingo represents a tremendous value for its flavor and organic certification. On a purely superficial level, the label is fun and flirty and just begging to be included in a backyard celebration. I know from personal experience that Pink Flamingo is delicious with Mt. Tam cheese for happy hour.
Thanks to IT Public Relations for organizing our tasting. What an interesting and fun wine.
Cheers!
