Rose is the New Red: Best Pink Wines for Summer

Haven't you head: rosé is the new red! When the weather warms up and we begin cooking and eating outdoors, we know it is time to start opening the vino rosado, rosé wine. Rosé can run the entire spectrum of pink from pale blush to deep cerise (in general, darker colored wines will be more full-bodied than lighter versions), is extremely versatile, and pairs great with seasonal dishes. So here’s what we will be sharing with our friends this summer:

From Chile

Apaltagua Carmenere Rosé 2013 (left): Medium blush in color, this wine made from Chile’s signature red grape has slightly tart flavors of raspberry and cranberry that meld nicely with notes of rose petal and clove. It can hold its own against mildly spicy seafood or chicken dishes.

Calcu Rosé Reserva 2013: Calcu means magician in Chile’s native Mapuche language, and this blend of Malbec, Syrah, and Petit Verdot lives up to the name. Flavors of cherry and strawberry with a strong vein of citrus are a nice match for foods with a dash of cayenne or chili powder.

Montes Cherub Rosé of Syrah 2013: Deep pink in color, this 100% Syrah offers fresh flavors of cherry, Turkish delight, and a touch of black pepper. A nice splash of acidity on the finish makes it a good pairing for fish tacos or shrimp with citrus.

From Spain

We enjoy rosé wine at the merenderos that line the beaches of the Costa del Sol all summer long. Chilled in an ice bucket placed in the sand, we drink them alongside calamaritos, grilled sardines, and paella.

El Coto Rioja Rosado 2013 (left): A blend of Tempranillo and Grenache, this rosé from Rioja opens with bright flavors of strawberry and raspberry, which are joined on the palate by notes of thyme and oregano and a touch of lemon zest. It's a food-friendly wine with sophisticated savory notes that last through the finish.

Finca Museum Vinea Tempranillo Rosado 2013: Mouthwatering fruit of the wood flavors with strong mineral notes and bracing acidity make for a thoroughly enjoyable wine from the Cigales region, where Tempranillo is known as Tinta del Pais.

Next up, wines from France and Italy… [pagebreak]

From France

Although the ancient Greeks are said to have made the first rosé wine, the French have certainly done a wonderful job of making it popular in the modern era.

Marc Roman Rosé 2013: Easy drinking and easy on the wallet, this 100% Syrah is medium pink incolor, with flavors of strawberry and pomegranate. Terrific on its own, but try it alongside chicken and cheese quesadillas.

Pascal Jolivet Sancerre Rosé 2013: Medium peach colored and made from 100% Pinot Noir, this wine is full in the mouth with flavors of cherry, ripe peach, and lavender. Zesty acidity and strong mineral notes round out the pleasing finish.

Chateau d’Aqueria Tavel 2011 (left): Blended from Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, and Clairette, this Southern France stunner has a deep coral hue and flavors of brambly berries with a touch of Mediterranean herbs.

From Italy

Among the many things Italy has given to the world, al fresco dining ranks at the top of our list. Celebrate eating outdoors than a bottle of chilled Italian rosé.

Mastroberardino Lacrimarosa Campania IGT 2013 (left): Italian for “pink tear,” Lacrimarosa is made from 100% Aglianico. Medium pink in color, it has luscious flavors of summer peach, strawberry, and apricot with a hint of white flowers.

Centine Toscana Rosé 2013: Don’t worry if you forgot the corkscrew, the easy open screwcap lets you dive right into the fresh red fruit flavors and bright acidity of this Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon blend.

LibratiCirò Rosato 2013 (right): The color of tart cherries, this rosé is 100% Gaglioppo, the main variety of Calabria. It has rich flavors of currants and cherry with pleasing touches of rose and spice.