Rosé is back in season…at least here in the Washington, DC area where temperatures are already soaring, making it the perfect time for the refreshing wine. I’ve discovered two new ones you’ll definitely want to check out.

 2011 A to Z Rosé

  • Varietal: 100% Sangiovese organically grown
  • Aroma: Strawberry, raspberry, blueberry
  • Taste: Juicy watermelon and cherry with tropical notes and a crisp finish
  • Price: $11
  • My thoughts: Yum! This is a BIG juicy rosé made from Sangiovese grapes. A to Z is a great Oregon winery I’ve enjoyed for some time. Living in Amsterdam, our local wine shop, Grape District, carried their Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir which was a good American wine to have in Europe. I spotted this wine out at The Majestic restaurant. The intense pink color was striking in the bottle. Unfortunately the one they were pouring for the customer was their last. Then I happened upon it last week at my local Whole Foods Market! I was not disappointed when I opened the bottle. Like their other wines, it’s the ‘Essence of Oregon’ … ‘Aristocratic wines at Democratic Prices’, as they say.

Bebé Sparkling Rosé

  • Varietal: Prosecco and Raboso grape blend
  • Aroma: Strawberry and vanilla
  • Taste: A crisp juicy strawberry vanilla
  • Price: $12
  • My thoughts: From the maker of my favorite Prosecco, I finally found this sparkling rosé (at a wine shop in Frederick, MD)! It’s a gorgeous pop top bottle with snazzy striped label full of strawberry vanilla deliciousness! Bebé, meaning Baby, Prosecco is from the small family owned vineyards of Vini Tonon and Musarango in Italy’s Veneto Region (origin of all Prosecco) and made exclusively for Siema Wines, a local importer/distributor.

Cheers to Rosé season!