Rose

Question 1

DOMAINE D’EOLE, Provence, France, 2017

Answer 1

55% Grenache, 15% Cinsault, 15% Syrah, 5% Mourvèdre, 5% Counoise and 5% Carignan

$39

Raised in stainless steel and bottled after 5 months on fine lees, this gorgeous rosé is textural and multi-layered, due in no small part to the inclusion of six varieties in the final blend. Further complexity is derived from a considered picking regime, with some parcels picked early for acidity and freshness, and others at full ripeness for weight and depth.

A floral and melon scented nose opens to a long and detailed palate of red fruit, rockmelon, fleshy peach, and tangerine and a brush of wild strawberry. As an oversimplification, this is utterly vinous - a long and robust finish with some sappiness. Its flavours and textures work amazingly with wood grill cooking, certainly a rosé for steak.

Question 2

MORDOREE, “La Dame Rousse”, Tavel, 2017

Answer 2

Grenache-Cinsault-Syrah-Mourvedre-Bourboulenc

$49

Deep pink with an attractively dusky hue, this invigorating but sturdy rosé can be enjoyed year round. Ripe but fresh red-cherry and raspberry flavors are nuanced by hints of bramble, dried garrigue and earth. This refreshing yet penetrating wine should drink well through 2020.

Question 3

MORDOREE, “La Reine des Bois”, Tavel, 2017

Answer 3

Grenache-Clairette-Cinsault-Syrah-Bourboulenc

$59

Brilliant orange-pink. Heady, mineral-accented raspberry, cherry and blood orange scents, joined by a suave floral accent that builds in the glass. Sappy and concentrated yet energetic as well, offering palate-staining red fruit, citrus zest and lavender pastille flavors and a hint of fennel. Shows real power and red-fruit-driven character on the finish, which hangs on with impressive tenacity. I’d look at this rich, weighty Tavel more as a light red wine than a pink wine and serve it accordingly, with full-flavored, strongly seasoned, earthy foods, perhaps even alongside grilled or braised red meat dishes. Drink 2019-2024.

Question 4

MCPHERSON CELLARS, “Les Copains”, Texas, 2017

Answer 4

Cinsault-Grenache-Rolle

$39

Our complex, dry rosé is a true rosé—direct to press after it arrived to the winery, with just a couple hours on the skins. Delicate berry and plummy, herbal nuances abound in this vibrant rosé. The crisp acidity makes it a rosé with mass appeal that begs for a light dinner al fresco, a big juicy burger, or Mediterranean fare—the pairing possibilities are unparalleled.