rose

The drought is subsiding a bit, but we know it will return. This lively French Rosé will make a substantial dent in your thirst. The Château Lamothe Bordeaux Rosé is a fascinating Rosé made up of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It has a darker color than the Rosés of Provence, but for my money, has considerable complexity with strawberries and a hint of lemon on the nose. Dry, berry fruit flavors are complimented by soft tannins in the finish. Despite the two grapes used in making this wine, it is light and refreshing. This is a wine you will want to serve well chilled. Enjoy Ch. Lamothe with Barbecued pork or spinach – feta chicken sausages on the grill.

We are back to the French wines this week for a very good reason; it’s extremely hot out and it is time for a refreshing alternative to white wine that will make the most ardent red lovers happy as well. What better than a French Rose? This is not your grandma’s Rose, nor your grandaughter’s for that matter. This wine is not sweet. It is quite dry but delightfully refreshing.

The Chateau L’ermitage Rose 2011 is a medium light color, similar to watermelon where it meets the white edges. The nose has ripe peach and faint melon scents. Light strawberry and raspberry is prominent thanks to the Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre grapes that make up this delicate Rhone Rose. There isn’t a smidgen of sweetness in this wine, but it is so crisp and fresh tasting that it makes a terrific wine to beat the heat.

Have this Rose with a blackened salmon Caesar salad. A perfect summer lunch!