One of the most versatile wines is a rosé. The body style and flavor profile of these wines will pair with many different cheeses, meats and go great with a wide array of cuisines. Traditionally France and Spain have been noted for there fabulous rosés, but nowadays you can find these pink beauties coming from all over the globe. With the weather finally warming up and the grills starting to fire up, the next wine you should grab is certainly one that has a pink hue. Rosés are usually made in the same way as red wine, but with a shorter maceration. Capturing the freshness, acidity and wonderful fruit flavors of the grapes is the goal. Most often these wines will display aromas and flavors of red fruits like strawberry, raspberry and cherry. The weight is usually heavier than most white wines, but lighter than most red wines. Rosés can be found in dry styles all the way to sweeter versions. These wines make great summertime wines because they need to be chilled down and have a very thirst quenching character to them. If you’re looking for a wine to share with company before the meal rosés also will fit the bill as an enjoyable aperitif. Fish, chicken, pork, beef and even spicy foods will all go great with rosés. Mexican cuisine is a favorite of mine with off-dry to dry rosés. Even Asian dishes can be paired with many styles of this wine. If your looking for a new wine this summer that will please a large number of wine drinkers and go fabulous with many summertime foods than look no further than to a refreshing bottle of rosé. Here is a list of some of my favorite pink sippers that should be easy to find at a Westside Liquor store nearest you.

Chateau Ste. Michelle Nellie’s Garden Dry Rosé 2006 – This wine is made with 98% Syrah and 2% Grenache from Washington State. Its one of my favorites from this area for under $15 bucks. Tons of strawberry and raspberry with just a touch of spice make this a must try for all serious wine drinkers. Try with smoked salmon or mid cheddar cheese. 

Marques de Caceres Dry Rosé Rioja, Spain 2006 – Spain is definitely an Old world producer but this winery always has a new and refreshing style to its wines. This rosé is excellent for the money and is super food friendly. Cherry and strawberry fill the palate with a nice dry finish. Try with paella or seafood. 

Toad Hollow “Eye of the Toad” Dry Pinot Noir Rosé Sonoma Calf. 2006 – Todd Williams was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met in the wine world. He will surely be missed by many. His Toad Hollow wines still live on through his wife and are always great for the money. This Pinot Noir rosé has wild strawberry flavors with a silky mouth feel. Try with sushi or spicy Thai cuisine. 

Carmen Rosé Maipo Valley, Chile 2005 – Carmen always makes great wines for great prices. This wine is packed with aromas and flavors of white peaches and raspberries. Chill this one down and serve with cold grilled chicken or pasta salad. 

Menage a Trois Rosé California 2006 – Folie a Deux winery makes delicious wines and this one is no exception. This wine is a blend of Merlot, Syrah and Gewurztraminer. Jam like fruits with blackberry and raspberry flavors explode on the palate with a nice touch of sweetness. Great with hot wings off the grill or spicy grilled pork.