Dry French Rosé Wines

Most people shy away from Rosé wines thinking they are going to be sweet like a pink zinfandel. Think again! There are variations of Rosé wines that have only a hint of sweetness to some that are very dry. I have come across a few that are sweet, but most are not. Rosé wines are a great alternative to the various white and red wines and most often white and red wine drinkers can agree that this type of wine is great! I am not a wine tasting expert, but in my opinion they have the light crispness of a white with the complex body of a red, without the tannins. They are a very different type of wine and come in various flavors as do Chardonnay’s and other styles of wines. The French do a great job with this type of wine and in my opinion they are very different in flavor than the American versions. Peju Rosé of Syrah (Napa Valley) and Texas Hills Vineyard Rosato di Sangiovese (Texas) are excellent American versions and pair extremely well with BBQ and other dishes. The three featured are quite dry and don’t let the light pink one fool you – it is dry! The Chateau Grand Tertre Bordeaux Clairet is a Bordeaux Clairet, but in my opinon is similar in flavor to a Rosé. These types of wines should be served at about 48 degrees Fahrenheit and not icy cold. (This is according to the back of a couple of the bottles. I haven’t actually tested it with a thermometer, but if you take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes it should be right.) If served too cold, it won’t have much flavor. Allow it to come to proper temperature and you will taste the difference, not to mention the true flavor of the wine.

Ingredients

Les Eglantiers Tavel Dry Rosé
Chateau Grand Tertre Bordeaux Clairet
Mas de Cadenet Saite Victoire
Wine opener

Technique

Chill or let come to temperature to about 48 degrees Fahrenheit (basically take out of the fridge and let sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes), open, pour and enjoy responsibly! Remember to drink these wines at proper temperature (not ice cold) to experience the true flavor of the wine. Give them a try and let us know what you think!

Suggested Dishes

Try Baked Camembert with Herbs de Provence and Honey or Salmon with a Rustic Bean Ragout.

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