I’m going to be honest here, I’m not really a fan of summer. I’m pretty sure that when most people think of summer they think of BBQs and swimming and road trips and cottages. I love those things too, but usually when I think of summer I think of sweating from places I’d rather not be sweating from and humidity so high I can barely breathe. And I don’t even have lung problems!
But one thing that can make the oppressive heat and constant sticky-skin-feeling better is indulging in one of my favourite summer treats – rosé wine. A perfect summer day for me would involve a nicely chilled glass of rosé enjoyed on a quiet waterfront dock or leafy, shaded backyard somewhere.
Lucky for me Ontario’s rosé game is on point. Here are some ones I’m particularly looking forward to sipping over the next few months.
Eastdell Rosé
$13.95 for 750mL
Eastdell is a bit of an up and down winery for me. I’ve never really loved their reds but I seek out their rosé every summer. It’s super affordable and a great summer sipper. Fresh, fruity, and vibrant, it’s a definite part of my personal summer wine menu.
Malivoire Ladybug Rosé
$16.95 for 750mL
Malivoire makes great wine and their Ladybug Rosé has become a cornerstone of their annual offerings. Made from Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Gamay, this wine tends to have a bit more oomph than other, more subtle rosés, which make it a good pairing for grilled meats. Bring it on, summer!
Fielding Estate Rosé 2016
$15.95 for 750mL
Fielding is up there with my all-time favourite Niagara wineries (along with Cave Spring, if you’re wondering). Their vineyard is gorgeous, their tasting room is welcoming, their staff is always friendly, and their wines never disappoint. I’m looking forward to indulging in this rosé, which is made mostly from Gamay and Cabernet Franc grapes – two Niagara specialties.
Tawse Sketches of Niagara Rosé 2016
$17.35 for 750mL
Sketches is a great series and Tawse consistently makes trustworthy wines. I have yet to be disappointed by a bottle of wine from this maker, so while I haven’t yet been able to try this rosé I’m fairly confident in recommending it to you (and in putting it on my town to-buy list).
Featherstone Rosé 2015
$15.95 for 750mL
Featherstone is an odd little winery for me. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever had anything of theirs except for their rosé, but I seek out and really enjoy their rosé every summer. Weird, right? But their rosés are consistently delicious, so definitely work a rec. One thing I’ll note is that their rosés tend more toward to the flavourful, Spanish-style rosés as opposed to the more subtle ones from Provence in France.
Well, those are (some of) the rosés I’m looking forward to this year. What’s on your summer wine list?
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