Every spring, the return of clear, blue skies and long, sunny afternoons heralds the start of rosé season. Rosé is the perfect wine to enjoy with a summer meal when you want something more substantial than a white and it’s just too hot for red. One of the world’s classic rosé wines comes from Provence in southern France. There are a number of different appellations but all produce blends made from Cinsault, Mourvedre, Grenache, and Syrah, among other varietals. One of my favorites is the 2013 Abbaye Saint Hilaire Coteaux Varois en Provence Rosé. This is a prestige cuvee made exclusively from their oldest vines, none younger than 25 years old. It is a blend of Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah, and has that particular combination of ripeness and freshness that I associate with the best of the Provençal rosés. Tons of red fruits here – fresh-picked wild raspberry and strawberry notes. Delightfully refreshing and the perfect companion for a lazy summer afternoon.

This is my quintessential summer rosé! This rosé is classic Provencal in style. Gorgeous opaque rose color, silky and minerality on the palate, with a clean finish that lingers just long enough. Great balance with just the right amount of acidity. Super refreshing and just the right thing to drink this rosé season!