The 12 best rosés to try this summer, according to wine experts
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- As summer approaches, so too nears the time to begin stocking your fridge with one of the season's favorite adult beverages: rosé.
- If you're new to the pink wine, experts recommend trying out a variety of hues from pale to deep to discover what most pleases your palate.
- If you're looking for something to complement your fruit and cheese picnic, try a pale Provencal; if you need a pairing for a seafood dinner, go for a robust California bottle.
- Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.
With Memorial Day in the rearview mirror, we are officially in the fast lane to summer.
And what does summer signal? Rosé on rooftops, of course.
While this summer you may be sipping your rosé on your own rooftop with a mask firmly at your side, choosing the right rosé can certainly elevate any self-isolation experience, transforming your personal space into a Provencal paradise.
"For folks that may be new to rosé, I would encourage them to try a few different hues," said Andy Myers, wine director at Jose Andres Think Food Group. "Try a pale Provencal one, a blushing Spanish, and a rich, dark US version. See what you like."
He adds that rosés should ideally be dry — anywhere from 12.5% ABV or higher is a dry rosé — and loaded with fresh, vibrant fruits like strawberries and raspberries.
A note from our experts: While we tend to think of warm weather as "rosé season," our experts unanimously agree that there is no such thing, and a great rosé can be enjoyed any time of year. The taste of a good rosé can give us something to look forward to and transport us to a beautiful afternoon at any time of year — which may be just the dose of optimism we need right about now.
"The biggest misconception about rosé is that it's only for warm-weather enjoyment. The truth is that rosé is fantastic year round," said Brian Freedman, a wine, spirits, food, and travel writer. He consults on restaurants, is a drinks educator, event host, speaker, and regular wine contributor for Food & Wine Magazine.
"In fact, I love opening a bottle on a snowy evening in the dead of winter. It's my own little protest against the cold and the dark, and a wonderful reminder that better days are sure to come," Freedman added. Well said!
Anyway, shall we get on with it? Whether you're spread out on a picnic blanket in your own backyard or staring longingly out of your apartment window in the city, these are 12 of the best rosés to try this summer, according to our experts.
1. Liquid Geography
Courtesy of Liquid GeographyThis is a rosé from Rioja that hasn't quite reached the US yet, but will be launching here in just a few months.
"It's a delicious Garnacha-based rosé," said Myers. "The best part is that Ole & Obrigado Imports is donating 50% of the profits to World Central Kitchen," a charity started by Jose Andres that helps battle global hunger.
"Pairing rosé is easy," he added. "Serve it with happiness. Most rosés are uncomplicated, easy, and fun. They tend to get along with everything from fresh veggies to hearty meats. Don't overthink it."
2. Chateau d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rose 2019
Courtesy of Chateau d'EsclansIf you're a rooftop rosé veteran, chances are you've heard of Whispering Angel. This is the rosé that made most Americans fall for the Provencal style.
"Great rosés are being made in almost every wine region, but I have a particular affinity for rosés from the South of France," said Gillian Sciaretta, associate editor at Wine Spectator. "Provence is arguably the most important region in the world for rosé, and many winemakers outside of France strive to make Provencal-styled wines."
What sets a Provencal rosé apart? Its flavors of citrus, red berry, melon, tangerine, spice, herb, and wet stone. Rosés from Provence are dry and have minerals as well. Pair them with seafood and summer salads, Sciaretta added.
3. 2019 Minuty Rosé et Or
Courtesy of Chateau MinutyThis is a rosé that beautifully captures the Chateau Minuty Saint-Tropez estate. It also happens to be the best rosé wine among Vivino users, with a 4.3-star rating.
"[It] speaks of the seaside with its freshness and flavors and represents the ultimate in what a quality Cotes de Provence rosé can achieve," said Joel Anthony Caruso, Vivino's partner sommelier and beverage educator. "Its gentle freshness gives way to concentrated, almost gourmet flavors."
See the rest of the story at Business Insider
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