June 2012
North Shore Wine Tasting Group, Taste of Roses
2011 Jelu, Rosé de Malbec (Argentina) – Malbec grape
Plush and cherried, this full-bodied, friendly, fruit-forward wine is meant for dining out of doors. A fine partner to barbecue, glazed chicken and shrimp and a welcome present for potluck parties.
2010 Muga Rosé, Rioja (Spain) – Blend of Garnacha, Viura, and Tempranillo grapes
From the respected winery of Muga comes this delicious rosé made from Tempranillo. This wine possesses nuances of leather and clove spice, but also a delicate strawberry and rhubarb fruit profile. Light in body with great acidity, this is a fantastic wine to pair with chicken, tapas or good friends.
2011 Tavel “Cuvée des Lys” Rosé, Ch. de Manissy (France) – Blend of Cinsault, Clairette, and Grenache grapes
An accessible and delicious Tavel is a great find. This bright, strawberry colored Rosé displays white stones and watermelon on an easy going palate. Lushly textured, this dry, full wine demands a pairing with cold salads with beef or lightly aged cheeses.
2011 JP Azeitao Rosé Vinho Regional Península de Setubal (Portugal) – Blend of Syrah and Moscatel grapes
Like an easy bowl of ripe red cherries followed by a berry-licious fruit salad, this quaffing summer Rosé of ripe Syrah and Moscatel is fleshy, juicy and just easy. Fine for BBQ sauced chicken and ribs, glazed fish and watermelon salads.
NV Lambrusco Rosato “Primarosa”, Cantina Puianello (Italy) – Lambrusco grape
From hand-harvested Lambrusco grapes that are crushed and quickly drawn from the skins to create this delicate rosé color. Very friendly on the palate with soft aromas of red strawberries and cherries. Drink chilled and enjoy the bubbles.
2011 Île de la Beauté Rosé, Dom. Fazi (Corsica, France) – Blend of Sciaccarellu (an indigenous grape of Corsica) and Grenache grapes
Not often do you find Rosé from Corsica on this side of the Atlantic. A savory note of mixed olives comes across the palate, but only defines the sapid floral and berry profile. Perfect for italian antipasti, smoky cheeses and sautéed pepper sandwiches.