Today, June 12, is National Rosé Day. Celebrate! But also keep in mind that there’s always an occasion to “rosé all day!” Certainly, we love to drink pink on our lakeside deck, and watch its pretty color match the gorgeous Washington sunsets. However, while rosé is perfect for summer sipping, it also has a place during other celebrations throughout the year. Above all, rosés are food-friendly and wallet-friendly wines. For instance, pair rosé with seafood, shellfish, smoked salmon, salads, pasta and Asian dishes. Or simply drink rosé without food. Here are ten beautiful rosés that we poured recently (by location, in alphabetical order) — five from Washington state, one from Oregon, three from France and one from Chile.
Washington State Rosé Day Suggestions
Caprio Cellars Estate Rosé ($28)
This beauty is 100% Cabernet Franc, sourced 100% from Sanitella Vineyard, and aged in 100% stainless steel. And we give this rosé a 100% grade! For example, the wine opens with aromas of watermelon and red fruit, followed by great acidity, balance and minerality. Subsequently, we brought some home after visiting the winery in April.
Devison East of the Sun Rosé ($24)
Winemaker Peter Devison crafted this rosé for his wife, Kelsey. Above all, she calls this 2020 vintage a jaw dropper. Likewise, he says it’s the best he has made so far. This Provence-style rosé blends 78% Mourvèdre with 22% Grenache. This wine brings texture, as well as minerality, salinity, complexity and snappy acidity.
L’Ecole Alder Ridge Vineyard Grenache Rosé 2020 ($21)
This is winemaker Marcus Rafanelli’s first L’Ecole rosé. And he nailed it! It is a classic, lightly colored, delicious Provence-style rosé. Aromatics of strawberries, raspberries and watermelon lead into flavors of orange peel, pomegranate and strawberries. Most importantly, this 100% Grenache rosé sold out quickly, so watch for the new release in the spring of 2022.
Saviah Cellars Rosé 2020 ($22)
Winemaker Richard Funk created a gorgeous rosé that blends 60% Sangiovese and 40% Barbera. Pretty pale pink, this wine opens with an enticing nose of grapefruit and flowers. The flavors are lively on the palate, featuring more citrus, strawberries and melons. We are big fans of Saviah Cellars, and this rosé is yet another reason why.
Upchurch LTL Grenache Rosé 2020 ($20)
This is a serious rosé made of 100% Grenache. According to Wine Advocate, “For 20 bucks, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better rosé.” Aromas of strawberries and honeysuckle lead into flavors of more strawberries and other ripe red fruit, along with minerality and bright acidity.
Oregon Rosé Day Suggestions
Argyle Pinot Noir Rosé 2019 ($27)
This Pinot Noir rosé is a bit darker in color than the others – an unusual coppery pink or even blood orange. Aromatics of orange blossoms, strawberries and citrus lead into flavors of more strawberries, cherries and watermelon. Moreover, it is layered, textured and dry, yet fruity at the same time.
France Rosé Day Suggestions
Chateau Miraval 2020 ($28)
First, we loved this rosé while we lounged on our lakeside deck. What a lovely wine, which blends Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Rolle, grown on clay and limestone. Second, the rosé is fresh and clean, featuring flavors of red currants and citrus, laced with minerality and salinity. In 2011, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie bought Chateau Miraval, and subsequently married in the château’s chapel three years later.
STUDIO by Miraval Rosé 2020 ($16)
Studio by Miraval comes from vineyards on the French Riviera. That is to say, this rosé is strongly influenced by the sea sprays and the proximity of the Mediterranean Sea. Studio blends Cinsault, Grenache, Rolle and Tibouren. As a result, an exquisite nose of grapefruit and flowers lead into more citrus flavors, and lively, fresh minerality. Meanwhile, this is another of Brad Pitt’s wines.
La Vieille Ferme Rosé 2019 ($12)
This French rosé is soft, smooth, balanced and easy-drinking. In other words, it’s perfect deck wine. A blend of Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah reveals aromas of citrus and red fruit. Imagine cherry sorbet! So pretty and fresh. The sweetness of the fruit is balanced by good acidity, And at this price, you can’t go wrong.
Chile Rosé Day Suggestion
Miguel Torres Las Mulas Rosé Reserva 2020 ($15)
Similar to Oregon rosé, this too is made from Pinot Noir grapes. The raspberry, blackberry and blueberry flavors mirror the nose. In the same vein, this is a dry rosé, which is subtly elegant with rich acidity. In addition, the name Las Mulas is a tribute to the mule, whose hard work is essential to the making of this wine. As well, Miguel Torres Chile vineyards are certified organic.
Summary
In conclusion, we loved these different types of rosés. Consequently, we love National Rosé Day, and hope you do too. On the other hand, we also hope you enjoy this refreshing summer sipper all year round. Also, special thanks to Vineyard Brands for samples of the wines from France and Chile.
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Cheers!
Margot and Dave