Seems like everyone is jumping on the rosé bandwagon these days – and why not? Producers sense that wine drinkers want more flavor in their chilled summer wines, and a rosé provides more red wine qualities that come from contact with the grape skins. “This is a red wine drinker’s rosé!” hawk the advertisements. But not everyone has the experience to produce a balanced, quality rosé. The French in Anjou and Provence have been making rosé for decades, and so have the Spanish in and around Rioja. Today’s wine comes from near this latter region, and rosé is not a sideline for this estate. In fact, the Hacienda De Arínzano has been awarded “Pago” status – the highest government rating of a single estate. (Sort of like a “Grand Cru.”) This dry rosé will fill the bill as a delectable summer food wine.
2015 Rosé, Hacienda De Arínzano, Vinos De Pago $20 srp
Stunning, brilliant salmon-pink color. A clean and penetrating nose of freshly cut roses, subtle berry notes and tangy cherry nuances in the beautifully integrated bouquet. Flavors are smooth and roundly textured, with ripe cherry elements, very crisp acids and a peppery finish that provides refreshment. (100% Tempranillo) Drink now-2017.
90/100 points
