Things I Like - Food

One of the many reasons I look forward to the arrival of warm weather is the opportunity to drink a nice crisp rosé.

There’s nothing like having a nicely chilled glass of the pink nectar while dining outside on a warm summer evening. Rosés are truly one of the most versatile wines around - you can drink it as an apéritif, or you can drink it with a meal. It can be served at brunch, lunch, with appetizers, dinner and even with dessert.

Even better, you can usually find a great bottle for $12 or less (although not if you’re looking to buy American - see an interesting article on US rosés from the WSJ). While the image of rosé in the States has managed to climb out of the ‘sweet, starter-wine’ category that it was erroneously dumped into years ago (thank you White Zinfandel), the majority of the better rated domestic rosés are in the $15 and higher price range. What can you get at the $12 and under price point? I did a quick on-line search of the two major wine & liquor shops here in Chicago plus an on-line wine retailer. Their recommendations are below. But are rosé lovers in for tough times? The Chicago Tribune reported on a frightening development:

At issue is a European Union proposal to make rosé by blending white and red wines together. The French fear this will result in a flood of cheap wine. It would be bad not only for the public's palate, they believe, but also for the winemaker's pocketbook, ironically at a time when rosé is finally winning a reputation as a serious wine among consumers.
~ Chicago Tribune

I have a friend who loves rosé. When she can’t find it at a bar or restaurant, I’ve seen her ask for a glass of sauvignon blanc or sancerre plus a ‘side’ of cabernet or pinot noir. She then proceeds to blend the two until she reaches an acceptable color. I’ve tasted the results and let’s just say you can call it rose but it's more pig's ear than silk purse in my opinion.


The EU vote is June 19. While I’m hoping that the EU will do the right thing, I’m also going to stock up on European rosés while they’re still real.



The Wine Messenger
Chateau La Mouliniere Bordeaux Rosé 2008 ($11)
A pale ruby colored wine with a berry-filled nose, particularly strawberries and raspberries. In the mouth more refreshing red berries flavors abound, coupled with good, crisp acidity. Very enjoyable when served properly chilled, enjoy it with pizza, your favorite grill meats, or picnic sandwiches. Rating: 91
Vina Sardasol Rosado de Lagrima 2008 ($12)
Refreshingly crisp and clean with ample berry aromas; strawberry, peach, orange and nectarine fill the palate with fruit flavor. Good acidity and a bone dry finish, a great everyday Rose. Rating: 91+

Sam’s Wines & Spirits
Sainte Leocadie Rose 2007 ($10)
A brilliant Rosé. Just one sip of this beauty and you’ll know why dry Rosés are the hottest category in wine! Pale salmon in color with alluring scents of red cherry, strawberries and peach, the palate is even better. At once creamy and zingy, with bright berry flavors as well as melon and yellow plum flavors. There is a tinge of mineral on the dry, refreshing finish. Sam’s Rating: 91
Columbia Crest Rose "Vineyard 10" ($7)
This Rosé of Syrah is a dead-ringer for a Southern French Rosé. Aromas and flavors of tart cherries, strawberry, rhubarb and melon and the slightest hint of fragrant herbs. There is a wonderful rich creaminess that ends with a mouth watering snap of acidity. A remarkable value. Sam’s Rating: 89

Binny's Beverage Depot
2008 - Bodegas Borsao Rose ($7)
"The 2007 Rose is 100% Garnacha. Medium pink-colored, it exhibits an enticing nose of rose petals and cherry. Crisp and dry on the palate, it has a solid core of cherry fruit, good grip, and a fruit-filled finish." Reviewed by: The Wine Advocate 87pts
2008 - Susana Balbo Crios Rose ($11)
"The 2008 Rose of Malbec is a saignee of Malbec sourced from 30-year-old ungrafted vines. It exhibits a fragrant bouquet of cherry and wild strawberries leading to a medium-bodied, dry, concentrated wine with lots of spicy red fruits and excellent balance." Reviewed by: The Wine Advocate 90pts