By Michael Bray
As the weather gets warmer and we transition out of winter coats and boots and into t-shirts and sandals, many of us transition the beverages in our glasses, as well. In the world of wine, spring is rosé season, and we are excited to see pink wines back on our shelves here at Passion Vines. In addition to these rosy wines, we’re seeing an ever-increasing variety of canned cocktails, spritzers, and other ready-to-drink beverages. These offer fun, light, and delicious options for parties and outdoor events, as well as everyday drinking. I’ve included some additional information below, along with some of my favorite picks of the moment.
Rosé All Day
When it comes to rosé wine, the first thing I like to mention is that pink does not mean sweet. While some pink wines do have a higher level of residual sugar, many classic styles of rosé are dry, with bright fruit and a solid backbone of acidity. Most rosé wines get their color from minimal exposure to grape skins during the winemaking process, which imparts delicate flavors and a range of pink hues.
Cantina Santa Maria La Palma Aragosta Rosé (12.99; Sardinia): A bright blend of Italian grapes Cannonau and Cagnulari, along with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, this dry, fruit-driven wine hails from the Mediterranean island of Sardinia. The population of Sardinia is renowned for their health and longevity, and we think the local wine may have something to do with it – Cannonau is extremely high in antioxidants!
Domaine Clo La Petite Bete Rosé (reg. $23.87, sale 13.99; Loire Valley, France): Fresh and mouth-filling, this rose-hued wine is made from Gamay (the star grape of France’s Beaujolais region). Flavors of citrus and tropical fruit are complemented by refreshing acidity and minerality. Domaine Clo converted to 100% organic practices in 2017.
Cooper Hill Sparkling Pinot Noir Rosé (20.99; Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA): This fun, bubbly rosé is made entirely from Pinot Noir. Aromas and flavors of strawberry and cherry, coupled with a soft effervescence, make this equally enjoyable paired with spicy dishes, creamy cheeses, and sunny days. All Cooper Hill wines are produced organically and biodynamically.
Canned Cocktails
Ready-to-drink canned cocktails are growing in popularity and for good reason. They’re the best companions for the beach and the boat, they’re perfect poolside, and there’s a variety and flavor for everyone!
Plume & Petal Spritz ($14.99/6-pack cans): These premium cocktails offer a delightful blend of naturally infused vodka, botanicals, sparkling water, and a touch of honey. The Spritz variety pack includes Cucumber, Lemon, and Peach varieties. Gluten-free, no artificial ingredients or sweeteners.
Crook & Marker ($20.99/8-pack cans): This new brand of organic cocktails is on a mission to bring bold flavor and high-quality ingredients to the canned cocktail scene. With a large variety of flavors – including Blackberry Lime Mojito, Grapefruit Paloma, and Strawberry Hibiscus Margarita – Crook & Marker has something for everyone. Organic, gluten-free, and vegan.
Stop in to see us in our Somers Point or Egg Harbor Township stores or visit passionvines.com to peruse our full selection of springtime favorites.
As always, if you have any questions about the products mentioned here or any other Passion Vines offerings, you can reach me at michael@passionvines.com
Drink Passionately.
Michael Bray is the founder of and director of operations at Passion Vines Wine & Spirit Company in Somers Point and Egg Harbor Township. He serves on numerous local boards.
