Zinful Blushing

By The Weekly Winer 5 November 2007 04:07:00

 In the on going debate of Rose wines, which some wine snobs have dubbed the "Lightweight Stepchild" while others think of as a "Summertime Delight". 

To me, Rose wines are one of my absolute favorites, mainly because of the taste.  Some might say that Rose is too light to be a red wine or too sweet to be a white, separating it from others like the kid who never gets picked to play, or in sport terms, the "Underdog".  To me, being classified as such has its advantages, like the added joy of winning unexpectedly, or in terms of wine, winning the hearts of skeptical snobs' one glass at a time with its Zinfully sweet taste. 

These wines are gaining popularity and recognition all over the world.  Excellent Rose wines come from countries like France, Spain, Portugal, Canada, Australia and the USA.  These wines are carefully made by removing the skins just before the liquid is a dark red.  The taste is light with overtones closer to reds.  When speaking of Rose, my personal choice is the White Zinfandel, which has become a true favorite in the United States.  Though not really a Rose, the process of "Bleeding", or removing some of the fluid to give the Red Zinfandel more color and flavor, actually makes the White Zin a ‘blush' wine.  It's a common misconception, sort of like the turtle being an amphibian or reptile.  None the less, this feel good wine which has also been known as the all purpose, all occasion beverage, that goes with just about anything on the menu. Rose is slowly but surely making its way in becoming one of the best wines ever created.

Pick me!

The process of picking this pink colored wine is one that is delicate, so as you choose, sip and decide, keep an opened mind as you just might be surprised.  European Roses tend to be a bit drier, while the American Roses have a sweeter finish.  I have compiled a few recommendations that just might give you a whole new outlook on the subject of Rose wine.

Domain Tempier, Bandol Rose 2004

This French Rose from the Bandol AC appellation has been rumored to be the best Rose wine out of France.  Graded "A" and "A must drink" by critics, this Salmon colored wine carries a nose of countryside, berries, and cantaloupe.  An impressive balance of jaw dropping earthiness is rightfully priced at about 25 USD a bottle.

Capiaux, "Swink" Pinot Noir Rose 2003

This Pinot mixed Rose' from California is said to be "Addictive and Fun".  Hints of Ruby and Cranberries with soft Tannins will leave your mouth watering.  For around 12 USD a bottle it's not only good, it's great!

Beringer White Zinfandel 2006

Beringer White Zinfandel is my personal favorite wine, period.At about 5 USD a bottle, don't be fooled by the ridiculously cheap price of this wine, for it will absolutely knock your socks off!! For many years, Beringer's viticulture team has worked with premier California vineyards renowned for high quality Zinfandel fruit. Their rocky, well-drained soils and warm, even climates foster flavorful grapes, ideal for Beringer Vineyard's White Zinfandel.

Winemaking
The grapes are picked early in the morning, before the heat of the day sets in, to preserve the Zinfandel varietal's bright, fresh fruit flavors. After crushing, the juice is left in contact with the skins for approximately three hours to extract a light ruby hue, reminiscent of plum blossoms. After gently pressing the grapes, Beringer winemakers used a slow, cool fermentation to highlight the wine's fresh aromas and flavors of summer berries, citrus and honeydew melon. 

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