Pretty in Pink: Summer Rosé

Enjoy Rosé with The Paso Robles Wine Club

For wine lovers up and down California’s Central Coast, there’s nothing that says summer quite like a glass of rosé--that light, refreshing, and easy sipping blush wine that seems to be ever so popular this year. But for many people who visit Paso Robles Wine Country for a weekend of wine tasting, they are often confused about where rosé comes from and how it’s made.

Rosé is made in the same manner as any wine and gets its coloring from the grape skins. Depending on how much color the wine maker decides to impart to the wine is the determining factor in how much of the must will be used in the final product. In general, rosé can range in coloring from the palest of pinks to an almost orange color.

Rosé is incredibly popular during the warm summer months as it pairs well with the lighter foods of summer. Additionally, it’s easy to drink and refreshing.

Here are a few favorites:

Mourvèdre Rosé: This rosé is beautifully coral in coloring with nuances of violet and rose, cherries, and even smoke. This is a great wine to pair with grilled lamb burgers on brioche for an elegant and tasty summer BBQ.

Pinot Noir Rosé: With its beautiful coloring and fruit flavorings—think raspberries and strawberries—this light rosé is perfect served with steamed crabs or a side of fresh Pacific Salmon grilled to perfection.

Grenache Rosé: Here’s a rosé with good body, nuances of cherries, apricots, and raspberry, hints of orange and even earthy, mineral qualities. It’s refreshing and goes fabulously with a plate of sliced meats and cheeses and a French bread. Bring this beauty along on your next picnic.

If you haven’t ventured into rosé, there’s no better time than summer to give them a try. They’re perfect with summer food, easy to drink, and the little hint of pink is sure to put a smile on your face. As a member of the Paso Robles Wine Club, you’ll receive regular shipments of wines form Paso Robles Wine Country giving you the perfect way to try wines from our area—even a few rosés.