SUMMER’S BEST ROSÉS
By Elizabeth Darwin
Summer is here, and the wine of choice is rosé. Frequently associated with the Provence region in the South of France rosé’s production has expanded throughout Europe and North America.
The name rosé comes from the pink hue of the wine, yielded by a limited grape time with skins during the winemaking process. A great alternative from red wines to white, rosé wines can be dry or sweet, depending on the grape varietals used.
If you’re new to rosé wines, the plethora of grape varietals and regions from which to choose can seem overwhelming. Here, our picks to place on your summer wish list.
CHATEAU MINUTY
The M Rosé from Chateau Minuty in Provence is designed to be shared with family and friends. The M range of wines are non-vintage, modern in look and taste and combine a fresh taste on the palate with fruit and intense flavors. Wow your host this summer with the Limited Editon M de Minuty 2017 which features a decorative bottled painted in collaboration with American artist Ashley Mary. Info: minuty.com.
CHATEAU DE CHAUSSE
What wine could boast better social credentials than one coming from a vineyard located close to St. Tropez in the South of France? Chateau de Chausse, situated on 135 acres of land with adjacent 40 acres of vineyards produces a range of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Grenache. These grapes provide the key to the fabulous Rosé Cotes de Provence 2016. Blended from Cinsault and Grenache grapes this rosé has high minerality and is dry with a fruity taste which reflects the proximity of the soil from the Mediterranean. Info: chateaudechausee.com.
WOLFFER ESTATE
Produced and bottled on Long Island, Wolffer Estates is celebrating their thirtieth anniversary this year. Wolffer’s Summer in a Bottle Rosé is a non-vintage wine which aims to capture the spirit and style of the Hamptons in a bottle. A blend of some six grape varietals, the wine, which has a light coppery color is full of aromas with some acidity and minerality for balance. Regarded as an ideal complement to any summer menu the vineyard also recommends it for drinking with milk chocolate. Info: wolffer.com.
LAZY CREEK VINEYARD
As it implies on the label, this Californian wine is made from 100 percent Anderson Valley Pinot Noir. The aroma and flavors, which include fresh strawberry, honeysuckle, watermelon, and tangerine. Rosé of Pinot Noir offers something a little different from the West Coast which will likely leave a lasting impression. Info: lazycreekvineyards.com.
