Saturday marks National Rosé Day. Happily, refreshingly easy, dry Rosé is hot on everyone’s wine list, with high-quality options becoming more and more available locally.
Here are a few to consider. (Some were sent for editorial consideration.)
Notable selections Rosé wines include a juicy blend of Mourvèdre and Cinsault from Brennan ($25), earthy Pedernales ($30), slightly herbal, floral McPherson ($18), a brand new one from Duchman ($22) that is a touch richer than others we have seen from Texas, while highlighting freshness.
From throughout California, you can find inviting Rosé wines you will want to sip and savor. Wildflower-filled Cenyth Rosé of Cabernet Franc($30), aromatic Macrostie Rosé of Pinot Noir ($25), watermelon and raspberry filled Cambria Pinot Noir Rosé ($25) and La Crema Monterey Pinot Noir Rosé ($25), stone-fruit-filled Quivira Rosé ($22) blending organically grown Rhone varieties.
Gastronomic, expressive Patelin de Tablas Creek Rosé ($25) from Paso Robles displays why Rosé is ideal for enjoying with summertime fare.
I poured Winemaker Julien Fayard’s Provencal style Azur Rosé ($32) from Napa Valley for an event recently, pairing the apricot, nectarine and soft herb-filled wine with soy-glazed Ahi tuna. Balanced, refined and elegant, the wine was an immediate favorite, with guests noting it was their new favorite summertime Rosé.
Opening a bottle of Domaine Carneros Brut Rosé ($39) traditional method sparkling wine always generates a smile as the aromas of white peach, wild rose, and brioche prep the palate for enjoyment, followed by thousands of joyful bubbles.
Presqu’ile Rose of Pinot Noir ($22) from Santa Maria Valley is produced from some of the Estate’s oldest vines, using 100% native fermentation. The wild-berry and tangerine filled wine is expressive and delicious.
Oregon Rosé of Pinot Noir selections are always on the top of my list. Look for options from Adelsheim ($25), Stoller ($30), and a favorite sparkling option, Soter ($65) traditional method Pinot Noir Sparkling Wine, also known as their Soter Pop.
Inexpensive Justin Rosé of Cabernet Sauvignon ($10), Day Owl ($15) and Dark Horse ($10) each showcase quality with good value. Each widely available.
France has focused on Rosé wines for generations, from the sparkling Cremant made in the traditional method from Pinot Noir or Cabernet Franc, like the Ackerman Cremant de Loire Brut Rosé ($20), and slightly creamy, brioche filled sparkling Cremant de Alsace from Lucien Albrecht ($22).
Non-sparkling options from Loire Valley, like Salmon Sancerre Rosé ($20), highlights the mineral-intense, crushed silex (flint) soils of the region. Loire Rosé d’ Anjou wines are fruity, approachable, and uncomplicated.
Dry Rosé from Provence, influenced by the garrigue (wild, woody Provencal herbs,) the salty Mediterranean Sea, and juicy stone-fruit flavors of Rhone varieties, will make any summer-loving wine drinker swoon.
Stellar options include Domaine Ott ($50) and their less expensive BY Ott by Domaine Ott ($20), Whispering Angel ($20), Mas de la Dame ($20), and Miraval ($20). Also from Provence, Cuvee M by Minuty Rosé ($20) celebrates the timeless elegance and breezy style of the French Riviera.
In the Languedoc, just west of Provence, quality Rosé wines are being produced with slightly more affordable prices. Domaines Paul Mas offers both sparkling and still wines, with Cote Mas Cremant de Limoux Rosé ($16) and 1L size Cote Mas Aurore Rosé, a steal for $11. Michel Chapoutier Bila-Haut ($15) highlights the steely minerality of the region’s soil with their Pays d’Oc Rosé.
