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Coming Up Roses

Coming Up Roses
July 2015
Hot days call for chilled bubbly. Sparkling rosé strikes a delicate balance between refreshing effervescence and delicate fruit-forward flavor, making it the “ultimate anytime wine,” says Charleston Grill wine director Rick Rubel. Here are three standouts the sommelier will be sipping this summer.


Under $25
Domaine du Pas Saint Martin “La Vie en Rose” (Saumur)

“On an organic Loire Valley farm, a mother-son duo makes this wine from native grolleau noir grapes using a single fermentation (méthode ancestrale). The dry, crisp acidity balances nicely with notes of crushed strawberry and cherry, plus a hint of rhubarb. When you taste the wine, your mouth explodes with tiny bubbles.” Available at Crushed Fine Wine, $19

Under $50
Argyle Brut Rosé 2011 (Willamette Valley)

“A regular on Wine Spectator’s yearly top 100, Argyle began during Oregon’s early wine evolution. The 2011 vintage blends 70 percent pinot noir, 25 percent pinot meunier, and five percent chardonnay for a bouquet full of spice, acacia, watermelon, and lemon zest. A partially barrel-aged cuvée base aids complexity and adds richness and density.” Available at Bottles, $39

Under $100
Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé (Champagne)
“This classic négociant has long set the bar for elegant, sexy, and delicious rosé. Crushed chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier grapes macerate with their skins just long enough to provide a light salmon hue. The nose offers hints of citrus and raspberry along with a touch of freshly baked bread. The dry, silky, drawn-out finish reinforces Billecart-Salmon as a benchmark for bubbles.” Available at The Wine Shop, $99
 

 

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