It’s that time of the year when a wine lover’s fancy turns to pinker things. While Provence is always at the top of many lists, there are a number of other regions that offer worthy alternatives.
It couldn’t be farther from France’s southern regions, but the latest country turning out some great rose wines is New Zealand. Terra Sancta Estate Pinot Noir Rosé, Central Otago, New Zealand, ($25.99). It is no secret that today many of the world’s best Pinot Noirs are coming out of Central Otago, New Zealand. In addition to their red Pinot, Terra Sancta makes this gorgeous rosé. Far from an afterthought, the grapes for this rose are carefully selected from two individual blocks specifically for the rosé style. Delicate and perfumed, this wine screams summer. Try it with some broiled scallops or lollipop lamb chops.
Closer to home, Cep Vineyards Hopkins Ranch Rose, Russian River Valley, 2017, ($23.99). Cep is the “second label” of the ultra-premium estate Peay VinCep is the “second label” of the ultra-premium estate Peay Vineyards. Super-drinkable, fresh, yet complex and balanced, this is one of our favorite summertime rosés. Rosewater, sweet orange, and watermelon flavors lead into a refreshingly dry finish. Produced in very small quantities so buy what you can get your hands on! This is certainly one of the best Rosé wines to buy right now. It’s great with pesto pasta, Caesar salads, or just by itself. Definitely worth the effort of a hunt!
Principal Rose Tête de Cuvée, Biarrada, Portugal, ($25.99),is one more example that Portuguese wine is more than just sweet, fortified port! It is time dry Portuguese wines get their due, and this rosé from the Bairrada region should help that cause. Made from the first-press juice of Pinot Noir grapes pressed in a Coquard Champagne press, this is not your typical cherry-hued rosé: the color is a pale salmon-beige and the food-friendly palate has a savory, saline streak. We are confident you will agree that this is one of the best rosé wines to buy right now. Great as an aperitif or with a wide variety of grilled foods.
Rounding things out, I’d like to recommend a wine from the Chinon region of the Loire Valley. In a sea of whites, this town produces reds of notable quality, primarily from Cabernet Franc. Couly-Dutheil Chinon Rosé, ($19.99), is a savory and unique rose, reflecting its strong red heritage. As I said, Chinon is known for its red wines made from Cabernet Franc, of which Couly-Dutheil also makes classic examples—but this rosé is a standout. All the qualities of Cab Franc—raspberries, herbs—with a hint of tannin and a strong minerality make this a unique and food-friendly rose.
I think these wines will take the heat away with a pleasant combination of style and structure-enjoy!
Talk to The Wine Guy at jdris8888@gmail.com
