Hot? Not sure what wine works best? Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Prosecco and Sauvignon Blanc have their place for sure, but one safe best is to offer your guests a refreshing Rosé. These wines range from bone dry to fruity. Most have wonderful berry flavors with excellent acidity. Matched with light Mediterranean foods or just prosciutto and melon, they offer one of summer’s ultimate pairings. While there are many, ITM suggests the following rosés.
Ménage à Trois Rosé, California by Trinchero Family Estates.
The Rosé Blend carries no pretension and no pretense. It is a blend of Merlot, Syrah and Gewürztraminer – a fruit-laden rollercoaster ride!
Red Bicyclette Rosé, Languedoc-Roussillon, France, imported by E&J Gallo Winery
This rosé made of 73% Syrah, 18% Grenache, 9% Cinsault, displays a beautiful rosy pink hue and reveals light fruit aromas and flavors of strawberry and raspberry. The finish is pleasantly crisp and dry with a substantial length of red fruit.
Belleruche, Côtes-du-Rhône Rosé by M. Chapoutier, handled by Terlato Wines International.
Made from a blend of grenache, cinsault, and syrah, this rosé has a beautiful pale, salmon pink color with a nose that provides a mixture of red fruit (currant, raspberry, cherry), citrus (grapefruit), and grenadine aromas. The palate has a zesty freshness that is well-balanced and round. This wine is a great combination with summer recipes such as fish, barbecue and Mediterranean dishes.
QUIZ – A rosé is best served at room temperature. True or False?
Answer: False. Unless you’re in a really cold room! The rule of thumb is to serve them at the same temp as your dry white wines, 50-60 degrees. I like mine chilled a bit more than that…