Roanoke 2009 De Rosa Rosé: Summer's Never Gone

Perhaps Long Island is best for merlot. Perhaps it's best for chardonnay. We'll tell you one thing, though. Given the amount of producers making them, you could make a fair case that Long Island is becoming rosé country. 

The wine: Roanoke Vineyards 2009 De Rosa Rosé, a crystal clear, wild salmon colored rosé done in a dry, European style (it's not sweet).

Aromas (Nose): Bright, fresh hints of wild strawberry, raspberry and a touch of grassiness rise from the glass.

Taste (Palate): Tons of wild strawberry flavors, balanced by juicy ruby red grapefruit, blood orange, key lime and peach flavors. Very round and full on the tongue, but the finish is crisp with bright acidity. The lime carries through the finish.

Food pairing: Grilled local striped bass served over fresh arugula topped with a grilled peach salsa.

Interesting fact: Winemaker Roman Roth actually took a full barrel of fermented cabernet sauvignon and mixed it with this blend of cabernet franc, merlot, and chardonnay. Should add a little tannin structure that might make this evolve more over time. Should be interesting.

Tasting room manager's food pairing: Roanoke's Adam Ehmer suggests pairing with foods that are salty and a little spicy. He recommends pairing it with a plate of charcuterie, especially salami, olives and cheeses like Manchego.

Price: $16 at the tasting room.

Full disclosure: Henry has worked in the tasting room at Roanoke in the past.