Top 6 Summer Rosé Wines

Are you like me and just can't get enough of Rosé in the summer? There is nothing better than coming home after a long day and sipping a glass of Rosé. With extra time, you can even make Frosé, but just use the cheap stuff for that. Here are some of my favorite Rosés to sip outside. 

What is Rosé? A rosé is a type of wine that gets some of the color from the grape skins, but not enough to qualify it as a red wine. It may be the oldest known type of wine. Almost any red wine grape can be used to make rosé wine. The longer the juice touches the grape skin the darker it becomes.

California: TENSHEN ROSÉ 2017

tenshən is a play on words that nods to the winemaking acumen and the tension that occurs when harvesting. tenshən’s thought provoking Rhône blends are tenacious and alluring. The reds exhibit brooding dark fruit that is accented by Santa Barbara spice and completed by a mouthwatering finish. The white presents aromas of tangerine and ripe melon that lead to flavors of peach and apricot. The rose features phenomenal structure and texture with a clean, fruity finish. I also love the label. Have you seen West World? It reminds me of the map. 

Spain: ARAEX GRAN SELLO BRUT ROSE

I love bubbles! All the wines are made from fruit grown in vineyards in Toledo. The Gran Sello range was born in 2010 in order to translate 20 years of passion into wines that offer the best of the Spanish sparkling wines. A careful selection of vineyards in the heart of Catalunya, protected by the mountain of Montserrat, has been the main focus for the production of Gran Sello. And the advantage of using the Chardonnay variety in the blend brings more fruity and elegant notes. Gran Sello is full of pleasures and emotions to share in good company. It is certainly the best way to start enjoying the fine “Tapas culture.”

Portugal: Vallado Douro Rosado 2017

With a darker rose color (longer time with the skins), this Rosado has both the floral and fruity scents and flavors typical of the the Touriga Nacional grape, especially roses and wild berry. The taste is elegant, light, fruity and round and refreshing. 

Washington State: 2017 Band of Roses Rosé

2017 Band of Roses Rosé (SRP $12.99) is the latest solo act from acclaimed winemaker and former rock band manager Charles Smith. Starting its nationwide tour this month, this one-of-a-kind rosé completes any outdoor concert experience. Made from 100 percent Pinot Gris from Washington State, this crisp, fruity wine is pale pink in color but plush in texture, boasting a blend of pure, naked flavors delivered through a silky palate with fresh, penetrating perfumes of lilac, guava, tangerine, passionfruit and cut hay. I love the screw top and label.

South Africa: Simonsig’s Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rosé

Another sparkling gem from a different part of the globe is Simonsig’s Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rosé, from Stellenbosch, South Africa. This exceptional and unique champagne-pink rosé is made from both Pinot Noir and Pinotage – and is filled with red berry and quince favors, as well as “dancing” bubbles. This takes me back to the best trip of my life in Cape Town.

France:  Gustave Lorentz Cremant d’Alsace Rosé

Gustave Lorentz’s Cremant d’Alsace Rosé is made from 100% pinot noir. This is fresh, fruity, and full of charm and elegance.