Provence is France’s premier rosé region and Domaine de Paris is one of its most stylish and elegant. A previous vintage even gained mention in the prestigious US journal Wine Spectator: “Very good – a wine with special qualities. Dry and refined, with dried berry and cherry flavors and plenty of minerally notes.” The estate has been owned since 1900 by three generations of the Brun family.

50 year old Syrah and Grenache vines produce fruit of superb concentration and impeccable purity. There’s a tantalising steeliness to the structure, a flinty backbone coupled with wild strawberries and a lovely savoury note. Fine Provence rosé is not just for summer! The locals enjoy it all year round, on its own or with seafood, chicken or ratatouille.

Provence is synonymous with lavender fields, sunshine and delicate pink rosés many regard as the best in the world. Since the influx of millionaires and movie stars in recent decades, it’s also become one of the pricier regions of France. Yet, happily, we can still enjoy the trappings of the Côte d’Azur lifestyle with wines like Domaine Pontfract. It comes from a 20 hectare estate with chalky, stony soil and sunshine all summer long.

The prime ingredients of Provence rosé, Grenache, Cinsault and Carignan, love these conditions. Winemaker Marie Alejandro gives the grapes a gentle pressing to extract a delicate colour and delightful, strawberry scented aromas. Enjoy this pink on its own, or with olive tapenade or a fresh seafood platter.

Gascony used to be a one-trick pony, making the fine spirit of Armagnac. The market for that dropped dramatically 30 years ago, and growers had to search for another use for their grapes. They discovered that their Atlantic influenced climate was ideal for producing crisp, fruity whites. Good value too. Domaine de Mouchan, on the edge of the Landes de Gascony forest, has been the pride and joy of the Braisant family since 1949.

They have 58 hectares of vines growing local heroes Colombard, Ugni Blanc, Gros Manseng, even the red grape Tannat, plus Sauvignon and Chardonnay. They still produce eau de vie Armagnac, but also bright crisp, fruit driven whites like this gem. Chill down, it makes a delightful apéritif or partner to lighter dishes.