We’ve got at least six more weeks of rosé-inspiring weather (and probably more). Here’s a French rosé that is so very well made – the French often seem to have that touch where lightweight, dry but eminently sippable examples are desired. Today’s wine, from a very strong vintage, is from the estimable Rhône firm of Michel Chapoutier. The combination of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault hits all the right buttons from first sniff to your next bite of food. Very well priced, this is a wonderful go-to rosé to tackle the rest of summer.
2017 Les Vignes de Bila-Haut, Pays d’Oc $13 srp
Light salmon in color. A bright, blossoming nose of watermelon, wild strawberry and mountain herbs with citrus elements, especially lime, predominating. As clean a mouth entry as can be – rounded berry fruit, full of flavor with a peppery, mouth-cleansing, tangy lime finish. Absent of any roughness, this is what I look for in a summer rosé. A must for all picnic outings. (Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault) Drink now-2019.
90/100 points
