This summer you can throw darts at a U.S. map on any given day and most “hits” will be enjoying (or sweltering through) temperatures above 75 degrees.
That means it’s time for rosé wines. They’re light, bright, beautiful, refreshing, lower-in-alcohol (most are 12.5% - 13%), and well suited to the foods that we tend to eat in warm weather.
Here are three that will partner summery favorites -- grilled flank steak, fried or barbecued chicken, salade Nicoise, grilled swordfish with ratatouille, burgers and ribs – with panache. All are dry, not sweet, and cost about $12.
*** Lagrein Rosato “Pischl” 2006 – This smooth, subtle, soft rosé happens to come from my favorite place on the planet, northern Italy’s Sud-Tirol region. But I’d love it anyway because of its crisp acidityt, its pretty pink color, and the way it makes every food taste brighter and more exciting. Lagrein is a popular grape in the region; most rosés come from wineries near the town of Bozen.
*** Las Reñas 2007 – An elegant rosé made from Monastrell grapes, also known as Mourvedre, in the
Bullas region of Southeastern Spain. It’s ever-so-slightly spritzig (fizzy) and ever-so-slightly sweet. Lovely violet aroma and raspberries on the palate.
*** Carol Shelton Rendezvous Rosé 2007 – Carol Shelton is best known for her award-winning Zins, but this “diversion” – a simple, attractive rosé from Mendocino County Carignan grapes -- is delicious. Fans praise the juicy strawberry flavors and silky texture. Its dry acidity works well with almost any summer food you can come up with.
Comments