Summer weather has me looking at life through rosé-filled glasses. This week’s picks include a fine pale pink from Provence and two juicier, darker-hued ones from Tavel. And fans of picpoul de pinet, a refreshing, simple white wine from southern France, will enjoy a riper version from the Texas Highlands by McPherson Cellars.
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Chateau La Gordonne Rosé 2015
Three stars.
Cotes de Provence, France, $19
Pale pink and crisp, with zingy raspberry and melon flavors, this Provençal rosé managed to capture the ripeness of the 2015 vintage while retaining the refreshing acidity we expect from rosé. Alcohol by volume: 13.5 percent.
McPherson Piquepoul Blanc Timmons Ranch 2015
Two and a half stars.
High Plains, Texas, $18
Rather than the crisp, simple wine this grape typically makes in southern France, this Texas version is ripe and full, with melon, peach and roasted apricot flavors. Delicious by itself or with simple summer salads. ABV: 12.8 percent.
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GREAT VALUE
Les Lauzeraies 2015
Two and a half stars.
Tavel, Rhone Valley, France, $14
Tavel rosés traditionally are deep-hued, in contrast with the paler pinks of Provence. This year’s Les Lauzeraies is bright with strawberry flavors and a kind of balsamic minerality to keep the wine in focus. ABV: 14 percent.
Chateau de Segries 2015
Two and a half stars.
Tavel, Rhone Valley, France, $22
Here’s a richer, riper Tavel, sappy and just a tad sweet – not from residual sugar in the wine but from the ripe vintage. This one may appeal more to those with a sweet tooth, while wine geeks may favor the more complex Les Lauzeraies. ABV: 14.5 percent.
Beaumont Pinotage 2013
Two stars.
Bot River, South Africa, $28
Bright, raspberry flavors spiced with black pepper characterize this juicy red. Chill it slightly and enjoy it with simple meals from the grill. ABV: 13.5 percent.
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Three stars Exceptional, two stars Excellent, one star Very Good
Prices are approximate. Check Winesearcher.com to verify availability, or ask a favorite wine store to order through a distributor.