Barnard Griffin 2007 Rosé of Sangiovese

The Winery: Barnard Griffin
The Wine: 2007 Rosé of Sangiovese
The Price: $10.99 at Whole Foods

This past week I attended a wine tasting event through Seattle Uncorked, which featured Rosés. I have reviewed one or two Rosés in the past, and was surprised at how good they can be. Before you turn up your nose, think beyond Ernest and Julio Gallo. Or to put it in Corporate-Speak, think outside the box (boxed wine, that is).

Unlike the low-quality Rosés that you may have been served by your aunt along with her dry turkey and can-shaped cranberries, good Rosés are made with quality grapes, and get their light color by minimizing contact with the grape skins once the grapes have been pressed.

The Barnard Griffin Rosé is a clear red in color. It looks a lot like Ocean Spray cranberry juice. In the glass, it looks like it should be served at Christmas or on Valentine's day. The color is very festive.

The wine has a very bright and crisp scent. It smells of strawberries, with a floral undertone.

This wine has a crisp apple and strawberry flavor. It is fairly dry, and has a creamy quality to it. It's very good and refreshing. At $10.99 it is very fairly priced, and could probably be found for a buck or two less at a more mainstream grocer or wine shop.

I would serve this wine with a light summer dinner - perhaps a light grilled fish with a mixed greens and apple salad.