Pink Wine for Summer Sipping

Earlier this week I participated in  Pink Out,  a rosé tasting that I did virtually through TasteLive! Pink Out is put on by RAP Rosé Avengers and Producers, and while I participated from home, RAP had a fabulous event in San Francisco to celebrate what they have declared International Rosé Celebration Day.

Since rosé season is officially kicked off, I thought I would share a few favorites in varying styles and at different price points.

Travessia Bastard Rosé I have mentioned this in past posts, but this is my favorite of all pink wines. Made right here in Massachusetts, this wine is made in small production and is a stunner for a steal, only $14. It can only be purchased at the New Bedford winery, and I would definitely suggest you grab a bottle or two if you can.

Passaggio Cabernet Rosé I had the pleasure of trying this wine, from the maker of award-winning un-oaked Chardonnay, before it was even officially bottled. It is beautiful, from its color to its juicy, refreshing fruit flavors and subtle floral notes. The winemaker is a great person and passionate about her wine, and it shows in the glass! You won’t see this in stores, but it can be purchased online.

Pares Balta Ros de Pacs – Introduced to me by my fave wine store, The Urban Grape, at their opening nearly a year ago, this has become one of my favorite rosés. It is quite hearty for a pink wine with a light sweetness, balanced by acidity that makes it refreshing and great with food. Paella, anyone?

One of the wines we tried for Pink Out was Robert Oatley Rosé of Sangiovese Mudgee, a sweet deal, but not a sweet wine, from down under. While I don’t usually fall for a label, I have to admit to finding this one mesmerizing. You would have no idea the wine inside is $16! This wine is bright and dry, I would call it the perfect BBQ wine or boat wine.

Cheateau D’Esclans Garrus Another of the Pink Out wines, this Rhone blend has been heralded the greatest rosé in the world. It’s ballet-slipper pink color is lovely, and the wine lush, and decadent. At $80 a bottle, it is a splurge indeed, but it would make a great gift for a wine-loving graduate or for another special occasion.

And finally, if you like your pink wine to sparkle, and why wouldn’t you, Mumm Brut Rosé brings tiny, festive bubbles, a yeasty nose, and a creamy mouth feel, with loads of fruit flavors, as well as a bit of that toasty brioche taste I love. A celebration in a bottle!

I hope that these suggestions are helpful! I am compiling a list of summer whites I love too; even if you aren’t a wine fan, keep these suggestions handy next time you are shopping for a party.

I say we are long overdue for some gorgeous weather for sipping our favorite bevvies outside. My evenings on the deck soundtrack last summer included Jack Johnson, James Taylor & Carole King, and others, and my most recent favorite Pandora station, Simon & Garfunkel, is killer for relaxing evenings. What can I say, I like the music my parents listened to when I was growing up!

What music is part of your perfect summer soundtrack?