One Sip At A Time: Run for the roses...

I love Rosès!

There I said it.

I am, without a doubt, a red wine drinker, but when this summer heat finds me standing under a sprinkler in the backyard, at 2 in the morning, there's nothing I'd rather sip on than a chilled glass of Rosè.

Every year, at every restaurant I work at, I continue my personal crusade to introduce customers to the joy of a good Rosè. What turns them off? Perhaps the disco pink color reminiscent of that utter bastardization of wine known as White Zinfandel. Maybe it's just

unfamiliarity with how good a good Rosè can be.

My favorites co

me from France & Spain. France is well known for Rosè in it's Tavel region in Rhone which offers pink hued blends of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre & Cinsault (to name but a few) which lend themselves well to a Rosè. Perhaps that's why Spain also makes a beautiful Rosè using the Grenache varietal as well, only in Spain it's called Garnacha or Garnatxa.

If you're looking for something different than your typical white, which a littel more complexity and earthy characteristics that you so love about red wine, I implore you to give Rosès a try this summer. They are a great accompaniment to chicken, seafood and veggies off the grill. And with most priced $10 and under, they can be a great bargain as well. Serve ice cold, sit back and enjoy

Here are some of my personal favorites: