California Rosés to Sip While the Weather's Warm
(Via Inside Scoop)

California Rosés to Sip While the Weather's Warm

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It's official—summer has arrived, and with it comes the season's favorite shade of wine: rosé.



In the past few years, Americans have approached rosé frenzy: premium rosé imports rose 53 percent in 2014 alone. But Provence isn't the only place producing quality pink stuff. California rosé is the best it's ever been, and many of the most successful examples are made with pinot noir. Catch the rosé wave this summer with any of our top picks.


Copain: Les Voisins Rosé 2016 (North Coast, California), $20

Don't let its pale salmon hue fool you – this wine's a firecracker. The inaugural release of the 2015 Les Voisins Rosé jumps out of the glass with a delicate floral bouquet and crisp red fruit flavors. The supple texture is backed by a vibrant freshness and appealing acidity, making this a wonderfully versatile food wine. // copainwines.com


CrossBarn, Rosé of Pinot Noir 2015 (Sonoma Coast, California), $18

CrossBarn is the second label of esteemed American winemaker and producer Paul Hobbs. This zippy rosé hits all right marks. Tart, agile, and a tinge salty on the finish, you can taste the grapes' proximity to the ocean. // store.crossbarnwinery.com


Handley, Pinot Noir Rosé 2014 (Anderson Valley, California), $22

In recent years, Anderson Valley in Mendocino County has made a name for itself as California's new hotspot for pinot noir. Some of the top bottles come from Handley Cellars, and the same holds true for their rosé. Herbaceous and laden with the flavor of wild strawberries, it makes for a scrumptious summer apéritif. // shop.handleycellars.com


Head High, Rosé 2015 (Sonoma Coast, California), $18

This rosé may be considered the black sheep of the bunch. 40 percent of the wine sees neutral French oak and is stirred on its lees, contributing to its creamy mouthfeel. This offering from Head High strikes the attractive balance of being lush and voluptuous without being weighty – a great option for wine lovers looking for a rosé with a bit more body. // shop.headhighwines.com/wines


Pfendler, Rosé of Pinot Noir 2015 (Sonoma Coast, California), $18

Classic pink salmon in color with heady aromas of Rainer cherry, mandarin orange, cardamom, wild strawberry and violets that continue to the plush mid-palate of honeysuckle, mint, clove and vanilla. A stunning line of grapefruit keeps the mouth-feel lively and beautifully balanced through the long supple finish. // pfendlervineyards.com/wines


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This post was originally published in August 2015.

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