05/09/07 Rose' cont.

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. Let's welcome spring with Rose'. The most misunderstood and yet one of the best wines for the season. Today I'm going to give you a few pointers about Rose. Rose is a very sophisticated and sometimes expensive wine and it does tend to be misunderstood. So let's clear that up right away. A Rose' may not be what you think of as the typical blush wine. Those blush wines that many of us are familiar with pretty much originated in California. 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. Good quality Rose's however, are usually made by separating the grapes from the stems and the grapes are then left on the skins until just the right depth of reddish color is produced. That grape juice is likely fermented until it is dry rather than sweet. Although styles vary, 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 is some great Rose' being made from Cabernet Franc and Syrah or even blends of several red varietals. Rose's are most enticing when served very slightly chilled. So celebrate this season and try a Rose! Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at Vine to Wine dot net and thanks for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.