REFRESHING ROSES
Dry roses have become fashionable again in recent years. Prior to that, anything pink in color was assumed to be sweet. This month we bring you a pair from France. Today, we see roses from virtually every wine producing country in the world. Many years before these wines became acceptable and common throughout the world, France was considered the finest producer of roses. Several different styles are produced in different parts of this country. Some closely resemble red wines, while others are known for being crisp, fresh and racy. Our first selection is of that style.
 2009 Terres de Saint Louis - This rose comes from one of the largest co-ops in the south of France. Consisting of over 2,700 growers, this outfit dates back almost 100 years. About two thirds of its production is rose, the balance red wine. This 2009 vintage is primarily Grenache based, the balance coming from Cinsault and Mourvedre. Salmon colored, the wine shows dry strawberry and watermelon fruit, a mineral quality, and a long crisp, clean finish. $9.99
We happened to come upon this Bordeaux rose last year and would include it in this category. When you consider the source, it shouldn’t be that surprising. The estate is Chateau Pichon Longueville Baron, a second growth Pauillac whose primary label sells for well over $100 per bottle. Only in certain vintages, when conditions are right, this rose is  made by taking a small amount of juice after only hours of skin contact. In 2009 the estate bottled Rose des Tourelles was made with equal parts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. In style, it has more in common with a red wine. Aromas of berry, plum and cedar lead to a full palate of red fruits. Serve it slightly chilled to preserve the aromatics and recommend pairing with medium to full-bodied seafood or grilled marinated chicken. Enjoy over the next year. $19.99
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ITALIAN RED
SAMPLER
 2007 San Marzano Primitivo SUD - The word “sud” stands for south or southern in Italian. In this case, this refers to the southerly sun soaked wine region of the Apulia where the noble Primitivo grape is widely grown. San Marzano is the town where this expressively rich, yet more elegantly styled Primitivo was sourced. This wine showcases a nice garnet color with enticing aromas of fresh cedar wood and black cherry. SUD starts out mildly soft on the mid-palate, then eventually fans out with succulent flavors of baked blueberry pie and ripe black berry, along with sweet cherry that drives through on to the finish. It has a profound tobacco spice, balanced with complex notes of mineral earth and a smooth tannin structure. Enjoy this delicious and affordable Primitivo with a wide range of grilled red and white meats. $12.99
 2007 Valentina Montepulciano d’Abruzzo - During the ‘90’s, one of the hottest categories for Italian wine was economy-sized Montepulcianos. While these wines offered great value for this category, they also created a perception associated with this D.O.C. lasting for quite a number of years. In reality, a quality driven Montepulciano is one of the top values produced in Italy today. Founded in 1990, La Valentina quickly became recognized as one of the leading producers in the area. They make several single vineyard bottlings, along with this “basic” bottling. Coming from estate vineyards and long-term contracts, the age of vines for this bottling range from 25 to 35 years. After the grapes are pressed, the skins are kept in contact with the juice for seven days. After fermentation in stainless steel, only 15% of the wine sees oak in the ageing process. On the palate the wine shows raspberry fruit, a fresh pure quality, followed by spice and licorice on the finish. A simply delicious red to enjoy with any grilled meat or strong cheeses. $14.99
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