Three Must try Rosés for 2020

Rosé wines are gaining popularity across the globe.  As a child in the 70’s, I remember sneaking sips of Mateus and Gallo White Zinfandel from the basement refrigerator. In many cases, these bottles were covered with Saran wrap and a rubber band so suffice it to say that I never thought I would be writing a piece about rosés.  Well, it’s now 2020 and have times ever changed.  Here are three amazing rosés for your consideration

The 2017 Lacrimarosa Irpinia Rosato is a bone-dry rosé. It is made from the Italian grape Aglianico and is lightly pressed to give a whisper of pink.  In fact, the name Lacrimarosa translates to pink tears.  The wine spends a short time on its lees and then into stainless steel to produce a crisp, refreshing style.  I am struck by this wine’s minerality and catch all the subtleties of the soils from which it resides.

Wish to drink the rosé of royalty?  The favoured wines in the court of King Louis XIV came from the small village of Tavel.  They were also favoured by Popes of Avignon and Ernest Hemmingway.  The 2018 Domaine Lafond Roc Epine gives you a full-bodied expression of rosé. It is Grenache based and packs some heat at 14% ABV but gives great flavours of bing cherry and spice.  This versatile food wine is great with grilled meat and Asian fare.

My final favourite is the 2018 Proprieta Sperino Rosa del Rosa from Piedmonte in Northern Italy.  This region is most famous for its Barolos produced from the Nebbiolo grape.  The Sperino is one of a handful of rosés made from this varietal.  The nose is pronounced with roses and tar.  It has a striking salmon colour, refreshing acidity and fresh strawberry on the palate.  A fantastic pairing with grilled salmon!

These wines are all available locally and can be found by using the Liquor Connect website at www.liquorconnect.com.