As the weather warms, our minds start to turn to the lighter shade of things. Lighter shades of wine too are perfect for a springtime housewarming party, sipping in the garden, or at a backyard barbecue. Rosé has become incredibly popular, but most of us don’t know how it's made or where most rosés come from.
Rosé is created by organic skin contact. When grapes are juiced, the juice is clear. Wines receive their color from the juice’s contact with the skin of the grapes. When it comes to rosé, that is almost always in the winemakers control. Maceration times can range from a couple hours to a couple days. At Early Mountain Vineyards in Virginia, winemakers Ben Jordan and Maya Hood White use maceration times and other wine-making techniques - from direct press, to bleed, to whole cluster - to create components that are blended together for the final product.
The region best known for rosés is Provence in France. There, it is the most important style of wine and locals have become great at making it. It is always a safe bet to ask for a bottle from Provence. Yet, great quality rosés -- from the lightest shades of pink to the deepest magentas -- are being created across the globe. Here are three great bottles from other regions that I’d recommend for any springtime celebration:
The Traditional Choice: Les Lauzeraies Tavel 2018
A deep pink color hints at a heartier rosé with a flinty character. It is a blend of free-run and pressed juices that are balanced with freshness and structure; acidity and strength. Perfect to take on a picnic with fried chicken, its original style and blend has garnered it the "First Rosé of France." $16.99
The Local Choice: Early Mountain Rose 2019
A truly versatile rose', it won't disappoint! It goes great with grilled salmon or goat cheese and plays perfectly with a peppery arugula salad. In 2018, it was repeatedly cited as one of the best American rose's available, so don't miss the 2019! $21.99
The Natural Choice: Old Westminster Winery Take It Easy 2019
Here's a whole new take on rose' from mad-experimenters in Maryland. By combining an age-old recipe (Piquette) and recycling it with a modern hybrid (Chambourcin) , they created a hazy, tart, and tangy pink juice bomb. Pair it with brunch, fish tacos or anything that needs an extra hit of acid. This one's perfect for the first day at the pool. $19.99
Thad Parsons, III, owner and buyer at the Crystal City Wine Shop, has lived and worked in both the UK and US in the wine and beer trade. Today, he searches for hidden gems to feature in his Shop. The wines mentioned above can all be found in his Arlington store. For more information visit crystalcitywineshop.com.
(Prices are subject to change)
