So rather than really writing about my rose finds this summer - sorry readers - ended up tweeting - blame my appendix for wreaking havoc on my summer plans! Unfortunately, given that I was pretty tired all summer I did not quite get through as many rose as I had hoped. After tasting though here are my top four gems that I thought I would pass along (all of which I found at Esquin Wine Merchants:
- Biehler Rose (always good): Little fruitier this year; doesn't need food - pairs perfectly with a hot sunny day and spicy BBQ chicken
- Efeste Babbit Rose: Dry and crisp - definitely my favorite find of the summer. Typically only available for wine club members - but they released to the general public this year. If you haven't tried their riesling - its also fairly dry and one of my faves from Washington. Their Syrah is also incredible - can't pick a fave as every style they produce is beautiful, rich in color and taste, and reminds me of fall.
- Chinook Rose: 100% Cabernet Franc - need I say more? This bottle (or should I say bottles in our case) definitely remains one of my favorite roses of all time! After you swirl in your glass a bit you get heavenly aromas of strawberry that would make you think this wine might be a bit on the sweeter side - happily to report for those of you averse to sweet wine this is a very dry rose that seriously was designed to be paired with a grilled king salmon, roasted potatoes, and fresh green beans. Definitely worth visiting the winery and if you need a lighter bodied red - their Cabernet Franc is IMO one of the best to come out of Washington.
- Triennes Rose: French - from Province - so totally that nice dry style rose. I have to say I prefer it to the Biehler now as it is just so easy to drink and pairs so well with food. This one is a must try from Esquin.
