Do Real Men Drink Rosé?

I’ll admit it. On a hot afternoon out on the B&B patio, sometimes nothing hits the spot like a very dry rosé. In the past, my favorites have been exclusively Pinot Noirs. This summer’s rosé tastings included a few Cabernet and Malbecs but nothing  lit my fire.  However, I did find a Spanish Rioja (Tempranillo blend) I really enjoyed and I think you might like it, too.

So gentlemen, roll up the sleeves on your pink button down, grab your golf shorts and slip on your Topsiders (sans socks). Let’s drink some rosé on the patio before Fall is upon us and show the girls we ARE real men!

Three Rosés for Real Men

Van Duzer Pinot Noir Rosé  2009 – Willamette Valley Oregon $15

The Pinot Noir grapes for this wine are 100% estate grown from three different Pinot clones. They are blended nicely into a dry, crisp and refreshing patio sipper. The color is iridescent rhubarb. It has a slightly floral nose with hints of cherry, watermelon and raspberry. Once you get into the wine you’ll discover subdued flavors cherries, strawberries and pinot noir with just enough tannins to round it all out.

 Belle Glos Pinot Noir Blanc  2009 – Yorkville Highlands Mendocino County $20

Belle Glos is part of the Caymus family and is dedicated solely to Pinot Noir. The winemaker is Joseph Wagner and the winery is named for his grandmother who co-founded Caymus. To be frank, this may be the best Pinot Noir Rose from California. It’s quite hefty and the favors lean toward typical Pinot Noir providing more complexity than you’d may expect in a rosé. Flavors like raspberry, cola, gingerbread and spicy cinnamon make this wine richer than many other rosés and give it a sexy and boisterous mouth-feel. It will easily stand up to summer fare from the kitchen or grill.

Muga  Rosé  2009 – Rioja, Spain $11

I was introduced to this wine at  The Grove Wine Bar/Kitchen in Austin, TX . It was a hot evening after a 100+ degree day. Tyson, the bartender was pouring samples and before I knew it half the folks at the bar (ladies & gentlemen – terms I use loosely) had purchased a glass. At $10-$12 a bottle this is a great value. It is an easy drinking wine with enough going on to get your attention. The blend is 60% Garnacha, 30% Viura, and 10% Tempranillo which spends 2 months in American oak. It has excellent fruit with flavors like red apple, rich red berries and citrus and a silky depth in your mouth. Very dry and crisp with enough integrated tannins to add some structure, give this wine a go with some grilled chicken or salmon.