The rosé market in the United States continues to burst at the seams. I still remember when rosés took up just a tiny section in most wine shops, yet walk into a retail store today and you’re likely to find serious amounts of real estate designated to this category.
The report looks mostly at the 2016s from France and the wines show the richer, riper style of the vintage. While there’s 50+ rosés include, the top 10 you shouldn’t miss are below:
- 2016 Alain Jaume Tavel Le Cretace $20
- 2016 Chateau d’Aqueria Tavel $20
- 2016 Chateau de Nages Costières de Nimes Vieilles Vignes Rosé $20
- 2016 Chêne Bleu Vaucluse Rosé $25
- 2016 Domaine de Fondrèche Ventoux Persia Rosé $20
- 2016 Domaine de La Mordoree Tavel La Dame Rousse $25
- 2016 Domaine de Mourchon Loubié Rosé $20
- 2016 Domaine Tempier Bandol Rosé $40
- 2016 La Bastide Blanche Bandol Rosé $25
- 2016 Mathilde Chapoutier Côtes de Provence Grand Ferrage Rosé $18
- 2016 Tablas Creek Dianthus Rosé $25
In general, the lighter, Provencal styled rosés are best drunk in the first year. However, the richer, more concentrated rosés from Tavel and Bandol (and some from California) will easily improve for 6-12 months and keep longer.
Happy Hunting!
Jeb