Page 121 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL FALL 2024 SPAIN

BY TOM GABLE

NEW COMPLEMENTS (AND COMPLIMENTS) FOR ROSÉ

ome wine drinkers dismiss Rosé as a from party wines and blends under $10 a
sugary pop with few redeeming quali- bottle (and cheaper in-box wines) to more
S ties and meant only for Spring and complex, crisp, aromatic, and tasty wines
Summer quaffing. from France, Spain,
However, its increased Italy, Australia, and
popularity with foodies the U.S. at $40 and
over the past few more.
years has encouraged
producers worldwide France
to offer a wider array
of high-quality, dry,
crisp, fruity rosé wines For a quick global
with distinct styles, of- tour, France is the
ten showing off the world’s largest and
character of their re- most renowned pro-
gions, appellations, ducer of rosé wines.
and custom blends of Wines from its cooler
different varietals. areas often have alco-
This allows innova- hol levels in the 12.5-
13.0% range. The
tive hosts and creative warmer regions to the
cooks to explore new south generate riper
combinations and grapes and range
match different styles from 13.5% and up. Its
to complement parts key areas include:
of any meal. We’ve en-
joyed it with picnic
fare on the patio or beach, with appetizers Provence: The best-known region in the
to contrast with a gazpacho soup course, world for rosé production. Its winemakers
to take the edge off fish tacos (instead of enjoy more moderate climates than other
beer), and to complement some fish cour- areas in France. They produce wines from
ses (e.g., salmon in a dill sauce; white sea bargain-bin prices to the most expensive
bass beurre blanc). (still under $35). Their wines are typically
To start your organoleptic adventures, dry and crisp and show off a balance from
begin exploring the many types and styles their traditional blends of Grenache, Cin-
of rosés available in the U.S., which range sault, Syrah, and sometimes Mourvèdre.

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