Not too far from the glitz and the glamour of St Tropez lie the vineyards of La Presqu'Ile de Saint Tropez. Literally "almost an island" or what we'd call a peninsula, this is home to Château Minuty where some of the world's great rosé wines are made. The wines shine in summer while having enough backbone to thrive in our mild winter, matching perfectly with some heavier foods like lamb or beef. Now available in Ireland, courtesy of Galway-based Ciaran Mannion and his new venture rosewines.ie. Here are three gorgeous wines from Château Minuty.

1. Château Minuty 'M' Côtes de provence around €19

In a traditional Provencal rosé bottle shaped like the hourglass figure of Marilyn Monroe. Although a very light salmon colour, this will leave most other rosés in the shade. Roses and red currants dominate the nose while the palate is crisp, refreshing and elegant. This is too good to be relegated to the summer evenings. Grapes: grenache (50%), tibouren (15%) and cinsault (35%).

With food? Smoked salmon, lamb chops or roast chicken

2. Cuvee du Bailly Côtes de Provence 2009 around €18

This starts out with the typical bright red fruits but then develops more complexity. Light cherries with a little hint of white pepper and savoury herbs. A lovely acidity runs through this, making it perfect for weightier meals and another example, if any were needed, of how well rosé can cross the seasons into autumn and winter. A blend of 50% grenache and 50% cinsault.

With food? Pork, wiener schnitzel or fish dishes with a rich sauce

3. Château Minuty 'Cuvée Prestige' Côtes de Provence 2009 around €25

Another rosé where the ultra-paleness belies the intensity within. Bright raspberries with a laser-like acidity. Beautiful floral aromas of roses or violets develop as the wine opens up. A blend of 90% grenache and 10% local grape tibouren. A perfect foil for heavier meat dishes, all year round.

With food? Roasted glazed ham and turkey

Wines are available from: Wicklow Wine Company, Kelly's of Newport, Cellar Master Stillorgan, The Corkscrew and by the glass in the G Hotel and O'Grady's on the Pier

A grape night out

Wine writer Matthew Nugent kicks off his popular 5-in-5 course at Dublin's Hole in the Wall from 23 August. Five grapes over five nights in one of Ireland's best-value wine courses. €75 including all wines and food. To book call (01) 838 9491

Lar Veale runs Irish wine blog, sourgrapes.ie