While the heavyweights of Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhone and Piedmont often grab the headlines, another relative has hidden in obscurity…. until recently.  I’m referring to the Rose.  Now finally, this delicious and easy drinking summertime wine is receiving the recognition that it so richly deserves due to an improvement in quality, food friendliness and affordability; its popularity is reflected in a 50% domestic export increase in 2006 over the year prior.  Restaurants and wine retailers, which used to barely acknowledge rose wine, now dedicate space on their menus and shelves respectively.  What’s more, the early presence and late departure of Arizona summer heat lends itself to this refreshing treat.

Rose is a natural during the summer season whether it be with food or stand alone.  Its refreshing aromas of cherry, strawberry and watermelon, relatively low alcohol content (12.5-14%) and just the slightest hint of tannin in some wines, balance the easy drinking wine with perfection.