On the grapevine
SAM WYLIE-HARRIS ON... THE PRETTIEST PINKS FOR SUMMER SOIRÉES
NOTHING signals summer like a gleaming glass of rosé. And chances are, if you’re a serious rosé lover, you’ll be dipping into a pretty pink palette come rain or shine.
Ready to paint the town pink? Here are some refreshingly dry styles to embrace...
Exquisite Selection Sud de France Rosé 2018, IGP Pays d’Oc, France (£5.99, Aldi) In the hands of talented winemaker Jean-Claude Mas, this juicy, fruity, vibrant rosé always tastes youthful and fun, with its pretty strawberry aromas and a flush of bright berry and cherry flavours offering a mouthwatering finish.
Rosé Mediterranee 2018, France (reduced to £6 from £7 until July 3, Spar stores from June 13) At the softer end of the pink spectrum, Spar’s new rosé is delicate and offers faint florals with savoury, summer fruit flavours and a thread of acidity – goes down a treat with a well garnished salad nicoise.
Cavit Terrazze della Luna Pinot Grigio Rosato 2018, Italy (currently reduced to £8.99 from £9.99, North and South Wines) A pale, baby pink that’s fresh and fruity with a lovely roundness to the soft yellow apple and pear notes, a smooth, silky palate and a ripe, crisp, finish. Very appealing and delicious as an aperitif, with shellfish, or Parmesan shavings, as the winemaker suggests.
Cotes de Provence Saint Victoire Rosé 2018, France (£12, Marks & Spencer stores, or by the case online) Suave and elegant with a bouquet of dried berries, floral accents and candied citrus, plus cherry, plum and ripe citrus supported by moderate acidity with an alluring silkiness that lets flavour shine through.
Domaine Du Grand Cros, Le Grand Cros Rosé 2018, AOP Cotes de Provence, France (£14.50, Berry Bros & Rudd) Fragrant with aromas of freshly crushed berries and exotic fruits, a hint of mango lends a touch of richness to the fresh, round palate, with some herbal notes in the mix and a creamy elegance with plenty of freshness on the finish. Brilliant with Provençal staples such as bouillabaisse (fish stew).
Fleur de Mer, Cotes de Provence Rosé 2018, France (£16.50, The Bottle Club) The nose has dainty floral aromas, leading to a textured, silky palate with white peach, cherry and a hint of watermelon, fresh herbal notes and a delicate mineral core followed by crisp acidity.