Whether you’re poolside, relaxing under the shade of a tree or on a beach in the Mediterranean there’s a Rosé sure to change your outlook on the heat.
My first encounter of the Rosé Summer kind was a “non-Rosé”. In the 80’s White Zinfandel was in fashion and perfectly suited for my youth. My palate was still mired in bubble gum and cotton candy so it suited me. As time went on, sugary sweet White Zinfandel went the way of iMacs and dial up telephones for me. My palate became more diverse and accepting of the dryer varietals. Today, the Rosé that has caught the world by storm is the more uncommon Rosé of the world. It’s often complex, well-balanced, quaffable and refreshing! Sure there are fruity notes, but not sweet like a Moscato. Winemakers are putting more time and energy into cultivating and fermenting more interesting Rosés. This trend has created a market where there is Rosé for every meal, every day and every occasion.
We’re still waiting (nods to Apple ) for the Rosé emoji.
Historically Provence in the southern Region of Rhone has been known for its Rosé. There the pink stuff is as common as whites and a mainstay of French living. It’s also a great place to select a wine from if you know nothing about Rosé. The wine is not made by blending red and white grapes together but rather using a red grape and determining the influence of color by the time the skins are touching the grapes (maceration). It can also be made from almost any grape under the sun. Colors range from the color of very pale pink to almost a fuschia.
A decent Rosé runs less than $20 a bottle. A great Rosé costs less than $30 a bottle.
Fast forward to today’s Rosé. From Rosé gummy bears, jam, and macarons the trend has taken off. The wines are on a roll. It’s summer and that helps but look at the hashtags in social media. From #RoséAllDay to #YesWayRosé, they’ve taken social media by storm. There is even a #ThePinkSociety with a focus on Rosé posts on Instagram. We’re still waiting (nods to Apple ) for the Rosé emoji. A decent Rosé runs less than $20 a bottle. A great Rosé costs less than $30 a bottle. The vintage aspect is less important because Rosé does not need to age like a Cabernet. Less time aging equals less pressure on the pocket book. Given that these wines are particularly refreshing, lower in alcohol and light on the palate you can certainly imbibe more than a cabernet sauvignon. And you do not always need it to pair with food like some of the more acidic reds we sip. BBQ, tacos, and fish happen to be Rosés middle name. It’s also fantastic with mildly spicy food.
Here are the Rosés changing my summer for the better…
Domain de Cala
1) Cala: Provence Rosé I found this particularly exciting. Perhaps because of my recent visit to Provence. This wine is engineered by Joachim Splichal of the Patina Restaurant Group. It’s an exercise in food friendliness and a wonderful wine. It’s elegant mouthfeel combined with delicious red fruit and light citrus notes were a big compliment to the salmon colored Rosé. The grapes involved: 50% Cinsault, 25% Grenache, 18% Syrah, 7% Rolle. Price $15.00
2) Cala Prestige: Citrus notes and stone fruit highlight this Rosé. The long lingering finish is sure to make this a memorable glass for entertaining. The blend is 57% Grenache, 27% Syrah, 16% Rolle. Price $24.00
3) Day Owl Rosé: This screams all day at the beach or pool. Super bright, red berries, and lively citrus notes. This Rosé is perfect for a hot sunny beach or pool day with your BFF or Bae! The color is exquisitely salmon pink and it’s easy sipping. Barbera (Italian varietal) from the Central Coast of California, is the grape predominately featured in this summer Rosé. Price: $13.99
4) Stoller Family Estate: Direct from the enchanting Dundee Hills of the Willamette Valley in Oregon, Stoller is no novice to the Rosé making arena. Ten years of production and they are bringing out the best in this whole cluster 2016 Rosé of Pinot Noir. Lovely citrus and subtle tropical notes highlight this delicious rosé. This alluring rosé is the best of both worlds, well balanced and tantalizing acidity. Price $25.00
Life would not be complete without Sparkling Rosé
5) Haute Couture, French Bubbles ROSÉ Direct from the master of invention Jean-Charles Boisset announcing their Haute Couture, French Bubbles. Taking high fashion and fine wine and marrying the two, Boisset has created sparkling wine for celebration and indulgence of the highest level. Delicious aromas and notes of citrus and red berry. Using the Charmat method of fermentation, a liquer de tirage was added in sealed tanks for secondary fermentation. The result? A wine worthy of making a statement. Price $30.00
Alice Tetienne of Champagne Henriot Organic is important, but not necessarily the best. It is but one part of the equation. We have to be
Barodlino has a rich history in both wine and culture. There is no better Rosé that takes the beauty of the region and expresses it than Chiaretto Rosé.
Could it be that this region, today known as the Fastest Growing Wine Region in the United States is the world’s next Napa Valley? This is Idaho Wine Country.
All I want to do... is have some fun @tressabores #NapaValley check them out. Absolutely outstanding down to earth vibe and wine that`s better for you and planet earth. Sustainable, organic & truly killer wine! #certifiedsustainable #certifiedorganic
I know no joy as great as a moment of rushing into a new love, no ecstasy like that of a new love.
~ Anais Nin
The words say it all. Magnificent drink. If you can get it. @turleywine 2015 Napa Valley Library Block Petite Syrah
Dark, brooding with a side of magnificent freshness.
And now back to Paris for a formidably fabulous Friday! Michelin-star restaurant- check! Fabulous dark and exquisite library for enjoying cocktails, a breathtaking entrance of a French hideaway from years ago...
Stunning Michelin star restaurant and beautiful bibliothèque with Parisian friends.
Bookmark this spot! I don’t often share where I dine unless I am out of the country, but because so many people ask 💋🍷💋#TheWineSiren I am going to change that. Take my favorite brunch and Fried Chicken spot! @southsidenapa offers not only some of the freshest most inviting dishes in Napa, they also have a wide array of coffee, tea, wine and bubbles to pair your dishes with.
Its one of the few #petfriendly places with great food and an inviting team. Lots of talent here in the food arena and the outdoor seating area is equipped with swinging chairs, a fire pit and comfortable seating inside and out.
Fried Chicken you ask? Yes! Pairs perfectly with your Napa Valley Sparkling and #Champagne.The best in Napa Valley. Make sure and call ahead, they often sell out.
Hours are 8am-2pm
Breakfast served all day and an expanded lunch menu.
With over 30 years of sustainability under their belt, Domaine Carneros has a big headstart in the way of sustainability. They built the first significant solar installation, recognized as the largest in the world at the time. Far beyond complacent, Domaine Carneros continues to push the limits and try new techniques and strategies to improve their abilities.
Domaine Carneros
An incredible indulgence and the ultimate experience.
It’s in my neighborhood. Two miles away door to door. Why do I find myself returning again and again? Because this is one of the most stunning destinations in Carneros and Napa Valley. Stunning in both taste and views.
The skies, the ultimate blue, the vineyard hills throughout the landscape. It’s a breathtaking pinch yourself situation no matter how often you visit.
The team is so welcoming and the sparkling wine is world class and made sustainably. If you’re ready to step up your sparkling wine game this is where you need to be.
The wines tasted:
2016 Estate Brut Cuvée (late disgorge) ripe pear, white flowers, creamy, beautiful structure.
2019 Brut Rosé Pinot Noir & Chardonnay, incredible well poised, citrus, red berries, almonds and floral notes
2015 Le Rêve Blanc de Blancs Tête de Cuvée The dream. A signature must taste from the most prized blocks of Chardonnay. Evocative of citrus curd, pie crust, a nuance of ginger and tart lemon. I could drink this all day every day!
2017 Ultra Brut Tropical fruit, lime, lemon zest, crisp, lovely palate and exquisite finish.
The ultimate indulgence, featuring three of Tsar Nicoulai’s finest caviars:
Classic, Select, and Golden Reserve
Served with potato chips, toast points, and Cowgirl Creamery crème fraîche.
Make your reservation today!
Domainecarneros.com and ask for the caviar experience!
#TheWineSiren #DomaineCarneros #CertifiedSustainable #NapaValley #WinePairing #SparklingWine
Incredible experience and it keeps on getting better every time I visit. Have you been to @goosecrosscellars ?
Fantastic red white and Rosé wine. There is absolutely something for everyone. Including clothes for the shoppers amongst us.
#rosé #roséallday #napavalley #winetasting #winelife #summervibes #bestday #goosecrosscellars #visitnapavalley
Learn about new products, wine travel tips and the latest on wine, food and fab.
Learn about new products, wine travel tips and the latest on wine, food and fab.
