Rosé doesn’t ask much of you. Just a porch, a breeze, and maybe a bowl of strawberries.
It’s the easygoing friend of the wine world—effortlessly charming, stylish without trying, and always in season once the jackets are off and the daylight lingers.
It’s been called “summer water,” “the outdoors in a glass,” and even “liquid joy.” If red is drama and white is restraint, rosé is the spirited middle child who shows up with a chilled bottle, a mischievous grin, and a playlist that gets everyone dancing.
But don’t mistake its pink hue for predictability – or simplicity. Rosé can be flinty or floral, featherlight or structured, still or sparkling, and like all wines, it varies in quality.
Some bottles are made with intention and skill; others are churned out to ride the summer wave. That’s where a good recommendation (or a great wine shop) comes in.
This month, I’ve teamed up with Stephanie Miskew – sommelier, wine writer, and co-owner of Highlands Wine Shoppe – to share five bottles that capture the bright, expressive spirit of rosé.
Stephanie brings a passion for food, wine, and travel – and a taste for wines that are thoughtful, a little glamorous, and never boring.
Start with Tablas Creek’s 2023 Patelin de Tablas Rosé, a Provençal-style blend from Paso Robles. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Vermentino, and Counoise deliver red fruit and citrus with zingy acidity and a clean, succulent finish.
The Gallica Estate Rosé 2023 from Napa is a blend of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon, whole cluster pressed and fermented in stainless and neutral oak. Expect notes of alpine strawberry, oolong tea, and a savory whisper. Dry and nuanced, it’s the rosé for a linen tablecloth and a little candlelight.
From the French Riviera, Wölffer Estate’s Summer in a Bottle – Côtes de Provence is floral, peachy, and citrusy with a mineral finish. A breezy blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Rolle, and Syrah, it’s as beachy as its name.
Craving bubbles? June’s Rosé NV, crafted in Austria by Master Sommelier June Rodil, is a sparkling blend of Pinot Noir and Zweigelt. Bursting with hibiscus, ripe berries, and cherry, it’s a cheerful sparkler with substance.
Finally, the 2024 Round Pond Rosato di Nebbiolo brings Italy’s noble grape to Napa with juicy notes of blood orange, rhubarb, and strawberry. Aged in stainless steel, it’s bright, crisp, and utterly refreshing.
Five bottles. Five excuses to pour another glass. Summer’s here – why not drink it pink?
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