Is Rosé the new Chardonnay?

[Jason Zuliani]

Every year, as summer rolls around, wine mags and bloggers suggest a new contender for a shot at Chardonnay's title as the heavyweight champ of warm-weather wines. Riesling, Chennin Blanc, and Pinot Gris have all been tossed in the ring. So who's it gonna be this year?

I, for one, am rooting for rosé. Those delicious, dry, racy wines from regions as far flung as Sonoma, Provence, and Marlborough. I love 'em, and they love me back. Now the problem for rosé here in the United States is the gloomy White Zin stigma that rears its head whenever a pink wine makes an appearance.

Are we over it yet? Are you ready to embrace rosé, or do you still shiver at the thought? And if you don't go pink, who are you rooting for? Is Chardonnay your standard bearer?

[vtrockdork]

I am a HUGE rosé fan and have been for years, going so far as to throw a "Pink Wine Party" way back in the summer of '07.  (It was a huge hit - 30-40 people, 5 cases of wine.  Lots of hangovers the next day!)  Rosés are definitely at the top of my list of summer wines.    I'm particularly fond of sparkling rosés, such as Gruet Brut Rosé (affordable. tasty.  New Mexico?) and Nicholas Feilleut Rosé.  For a cheaper sparkling option, try Casteller Cava Rosé - under $10 a bottle and super tasty.   

This summer, however, I haven't been hitting the pink as often as I have in the past.  Mostly, I've been loving vinho verde.  The subtle effervescence, the bright, fresh acidity - nearly perfect for a hot August night.

I also purchased a couple of cases of Sineann Sauvignon Blanc this year, and have been loving it served just below cellar temp on the cooler nights that we've had this summer.

[tonyo]

My opinion is that Chardonnay has been unthroned but it was more of a group assault.  People are throwing back all sorts of whites and pinks in favor of the overoaked monster.  Tonight I had a great Sav Blanc from John Anthony (Napa),and a Montinore Pinot Gris (Oregon).  Riesling is a favorite and I love hearing people say "it's too sweet" as I know that will keep demand (and prices) down for those of us that appreciate a truly great varietal.  Some of my favorite pinks are Turkey Flat (gushes strawberries), Schramsberg Sparkling Rose', and an the often overlooked Brachetto D'Acqui.  As much as I love a big bold Cab, it's too much when it is 90 degrees and sunny !