08/05/08 Rose'

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. Today we are going to talk about a perfect wine for summer, dry Rose. There are blush wines, there is white zinfandel and then there is Rose'. The most misunderstood and yet one of the best wines for the summer season. Rose' is actually quite a sophisticated and sometimes expensive wine and it does tend to be misunderstood. A good Rose' is not what you think, you are most likely confusing it with that California blush wine. They are usually made with zinfandel grapes in a process in which the skins of red grapes are left in contact with the juice and impart a rather lovely coppery pinkish color to the wine. It is most often a bit sweet and is thought of as an introductory wine. Rose's however are usually made by separating the grapes from the stems and the grapes are left on the skins until just the right depth of reddish color is produced. The juice is then fermented until it is dry rather than sweet. Although styles vary, I think that some of the best rose's come from France where they are produced from the grape Grenache which is very fragrant and delicious. Domestically, especially in Washington state, there are some great Rose's made from Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. They are most enticing when served very slightly chilled with a dinner from the grill. So look for something different this summer and try a Rose! And thanks for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.