Les Vignerons de Tautavel 2016 "Le Cirque" Côtes Catalanes Rosé ($13.99)
Clear, bright salmon pink, a very pretty wine. Strawberries and raspberries and fresh green herbs on the nose; red berries and a whiff of watermelon on the palate, nicely balanced by crisp, fresh but not overwhelming acidity. It's nearly dry, with 13% alcohol and a whiff of fresh-fruit sweetness that could be a hint of sugar or maybe just fresh, ripe fruit. It's a blend of Grenache Noir (40%), Mourvèdre (40%), Syrah (20%). U.S. importer: Hand Picked Selections, Warrenton, Va. (June 22, 2017)FOOD MATCH: The winery suggests enjoying it on its own or with charcuterie, seafood, or fruit-based desserts. It made a great match for us with a summery asparagus risotto.
WHEN TO DRINK: The wine's good balance and sturdy metal screwcap will hold it for a few years, but rosé is almost always at its best when it's young and fresh. I'd enjoy this 2016 now, then watch for the following year's vintage.
VALUE:
My local price is a few bucks above the $11 U.S. average retail reported by Wine-Searcher.com, but I'd be happy with this good, refreshing rosé at the middle teens or below.
WEB LINK
Here is a winery fact sheet on the Le Cirque Côtes Catalanes Rosé.
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