Although Bandol produces the most serious red wines in Provence, it still isn't a particularly well known appellation, and chances are most people haven't even heard of Bandol. This intriguing wine is a blend of Mourvèdre (80%) and a dash of Cinsault (15%) and old vine Carignan (5%).

Château Mouton Rothschild is the work of one man, the legendary Baron Philippe, who is solely responsible for this giant of Bordeaux. Taking charge in 1923 until his death in 1988, he created something the world will always be in debt for. He also started the tradition of getting an artist to design a label for every vintage, a tradition that continues to this day. In 2009, the wine almost transcends perfection. A quite low alcohol percentage given the ripeness of the fruit, the bouquet is reminiscent of cigar box and graphite with violets and cassis playing a part. The palate is both restrained and concentrated, a impressive result indeed. The structure of the wine is hidden somewhat by the exuberant fruit, yet it is that structure that will see this extraordinary wine cellar for the good part of half a century!

A crunchy, flawlessly balanced rosé, laden with preserved citrus rind, redcurrant, and rose petal perfume and flavours. There's a pulpy, generous texture with racy, peppery, herby freshness from whoa to go. It finishes dry and super refreshing.

The top-of-the-tree release, the Cru Classe Cotes de Provence is still the benchmark for Rose across the World. Pungent and highly nuanced, it features pale peach and star jasmine aromas. Full-bodied and velvety on the palate and finishes long with hints of Kumquat fruit.

This dry, crisp French Rosé is all about savoury and strawberry flavours making it the perfect late afternoon staple. Hints of cranberry, alpine strawberries and orange peel help build the complexity, while the dry, amaro like finish adds a layer of moreish-ness.

One of the most expensive Bordeaux wines - and indeed, one of the priciest anywhere - Le Pin is a surprisingly recent arrival on the global stage, with its first vintage having been produced just decades ago in 1979. Originally priced at a modest 700 francs, the praise garnered by the 1982 vintage propelled Le Pin into the global limelight, with sales from that point on par with - or exceeding - those of First Growth Bordeaux wines. An exotic style of Bordeaux, Le Pin possesses a resplendent, lavish mouth-feel with intensely ripe fruit aromas and hints of smoke on the palate.

From Chateau Les Mesclances, a multi-award-winning Provencal estate, the 2018 Faustine Rouge AOC Cotes de Provence La Londe is an exceptional expression of the estate?s red wine craftsmanship. Produced from carefully selected grapes, the harvest is destemmed, crushed and fermented directly in 225L and 400L oak barrels. During the extended two-month maceration, the barrels are regularly rotated to maintain contact between the wine and the skins, extracting remarkable colour, structure and aromatic complexity. The wine is then aged for 18 months, developing elegance, depth and refinement. Deep garnet red in colour, the nose is powerful and complex, revealing aromas of ripe dark fruit, black cherry and plum, complemented by notes of eucalyptus, pine, Mediterranean herbs and subtle spice. The palate is rich and beautifully structured, with concentrated fruit, silky tannins and impressive length, delivering a wine of remarkable depth and character. A sophisticated Provence red with excellent ageing potential, the 2018 Faustine Rouge is best enjoyed with mature meats, grilled lamb, game dishes, roasted vegetables and aged cheeses. Serve between 16?19øC and consider decanting before serving.

Rated 91 points by Wine Enthusiast and awarded 2 Stars by Guide Hachette des Vins, the 2016 Les Mesclances St Honorat Rouge is a premium AOC Cotes de Provence red blend showcasing the elegance and ageing potential of Provence reds. Crafted predominantly from Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, this estate-grown wine displays a deep garnet colour with an expressive bouquet of blackberry, blackcurrant and ripe plum, layered with subtle notes of black pepper, sweet spice and well-integrated oak. The palate is rich and beautifully structured, combining concentrated dark fruit with silky tannins, fresh acidity and a refined mineral character. Hints of liquorice and gentle spice linger through a long, balanced finish, reflecting the wine's maturity and exceptional craftsmanship. A superb match for grilled lamb, roast beef, duck, slow-cooked meats, mushroom dishes and mature cheeses. Decant for 30?60 minutes before serving at 16?18øC for the best expression.

Made from the Gamay grape variety it is surprising that Beaujolais is not more popular in Australia! Soft, juicy and delicious - this is the ideal picnic companion.