You Say Rosé, I Say Rosato
August 12th, 2019
Ok, so I actually say both and you may very well do the same but as pink wine extends its unrelenting run of summer wine dominance into a now second decade, I am increasingly feeling compelled to distinguish between the catch-all French designation 'rosé' and its lesser-used Italian and Spanish versions, 'rosato' and 'rosado,' respectively. While there is no difference in the way these wines are produced (aside from each winemaker's personal decisions), the term 'rosé' has become as eponymous as popsicle, polaroid and ping-pong. I am certainly not without fault here. When I am called upon for a list of "rosé recommendations," I often simply run through all of our pink wine options, regardless of origin and appellation, failing to clarify whether we are dealing with a rosé from France, a rosato from Italy, or a rosado from Spain, and even at times referring to a "delicious Tuscan rosé" or a "really cool rosé from Rioja." Horrors!
Granted, this is neither a serious issue nor a hill I'm willing to die on. Admittedly, it could just be the English Lit major in me busting through (imperiously demanding elucidation!) but I felt obliged to raise the topic. You won't find me going so far as to correct anyone on their terminology but if I have raised your consciousness even just a bit regarding these pink wine monikers, then perhaps this is a concern you can discuss over your next chilled glass of (insert your favorite nomenclature for pink wine here).
Fun side topic: What do you consider to be the proper name for American pink wine?
In order to help you along in these matters, I will now provide you with a list below of the rosé/rosato we currently have in stock. No rosado at the moment but I promise to let you know when we get some in!
ROSATO
Roccafiore Umbria Rosato 2018 $18
An organic Umbrian rosato produced from 100% Sangiovese. Dry and elegant, bursting with red fruit freshness and savory undertones. Perfect with salumi or a summer pasta with veggies, ricotta and basil.
Reale Costa d'Amalfi Rosato Getis 2018 $26
Another organic rosato, this one from the Amalfi Coast and made with a blend of two native Campanian grapes, Piedirosso and Tintore. Exuberant and energetic, the Getis features a mix of red and black fruits with some citrus and a pleasant floral aroma. Mineral and structured with a nice long, finish.
ROSÉ
Domaine de Bastide Côtes du Rhône Rosé Figue 2018 $13
Continuing our run of organic pink wines, the Bastide Rosé Figue is a delightful and always popular Grenache/Syrah/Cinsault blend from the Côtes du Rhône. Light-bodied, dry and fresh with pronunced red berry and stone fruit aromas. Great on its own or with lighter summer fare.
Cochonnet Luberon Rosé 2018 1.0L $22
We are 4 for 4 on organic wines here today. The Cochonnet is another Rhône blend from the Luberon appellation, just on the border of the Provence wine region. It a quite delicious, lively and highly quaffable rosé perfect for lazy summer days and nights as well, with that extra glass or two in the full liter bottle.
10% discounts apply on all orders of 12 bottles or more. Mix and match however you please.
Case price (3 of each w/10% discount) $213.30
You may order by calling either 732.675.4623 or 212.255.8870 or emailing chris@mcf-rarewine.com.
WARNING: DRINKING DISTILLED SPIRITS, BEER, COOLERS, WINE AND OTHER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES MAY INCREASE CANCER RISK, AND, DURING PREGNANCY, CAN CAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS.