Avoid insane mall crowds at all costs and just go grapey for all your gifts! Now you either have plenty of time to go to a wine bar, or if you did have to hit the stores you’ll need wine. Set yourself up with this gorgeous Trousseau, a light red filled with currants and violets. It’s from … Continue reading
Last month we made mom merry with wine, this month we delight the dads. One of my dad’s favorites (and now mine) is Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a southern Rhône blend. The primary grapes are Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre although there are 13 that are officially allowed. Although the name means the new house of the pope, “pape” is … Continue reading
Let the games begin. Rosé sales rose 53% last year and there doesn’t seem to be signs of a slow down. Why? It’s light, refreshing, uncomplicated and perfect for summer sipping. I’ll be recommending my favorite rosés every month this summer, so here’s the first batch for National Rosé Day on June 9, from the OG … Continue reading
This week’s fave rosé comes from Corsica, that French island near Italy I’ve always wanted to go to. Yves Leccia’s wines are apparently referred to as the Rolls Royce of Corsican wines. I haven’t had any of his others, but the rosé is on point! It’s made up of 20% Grenache, a common rosé grape, … Continue reading
For a winemaker who almost considered being a professional shooter, 25-year-old Mathilde Chapoutier clearly has good aim. Lots of Provençal rosé can be bland and boring, though usually refreshing on a sweltering day. But this one has all the refreshing, light qualities you’re looking for in summer, while still bringing some interesting fruit and minerality. … Continue reading
We’ve made it all the way to the #1 rosé of the summer: Chateau d’Oupia! Man, this is a KILLER rosé! Absolute perfect balance of fresh strawberry and raspberry juice with an excellent nerve of minerality. So I’m sampling and sipping away and thinking this is probably in the $20 or even $30 range. But … Continue reading
In grapefriend’s long-standing tradition (ok, three years – and counting), Rosé Week is back in action! In past summers we’ve gone through how rosé is made, what songs it pairs best with, and which celebrities are making the pink. I’ve tasted over 75 of them since June, so this year we’re getting back to basics and … Continue reading
