As with the last few years where I have shared my top 5 Rosés, I am ready to once again share my thoughts on the 2021 contenders. I do this research because I feel it is my duty. It’s grueling, and at times, I think my generosity to this undertaking is more than most could handle… but for you, my few readers, I am happy to take on this task 😊

I think Rosés get better and better each year and for 2021, I have some fabulous new finds as well as a few tried and tested true.

Cochon Old Vine 2020, California

My go-to local, The Dearborn, introduced me to this superb Rosé. I just need them to add it to their menu! Pale peach in color. A lively aroma of fresh stone fruits reminiscent of the first days of spring. The first taste brings mildly sweet citrus fruits and tempting drinkability. This deliciously light Rosé charms the palate and has the magical effect of making you want more. Best time to drink: Selfishly dining alone so you get the wine all to yourself. Retails at $16.

Caves D’esclans Whispering Angel, Provence

Whispering Angel still remains on my top 5 list of Rosés. While this Rosé is now on many restaurant wine lists and is synonymous with summer wine drinking, the taste remains distinct and superior year on year.  Whispering Angel delights and satisfies the taste buds with under-ripe strawberries and a bone-dry finish. Best time to drink: Sunday Funday starting with brunch and eggs benedict. Retails from $18-24.  

Porter Family Sandpiper Rosé, Napa Valley

One of my Wine Clubs, Porter Family, brings out a new Rosé every year, and it is a highlight of my summer. This year they have surpassed themselves with a favorite to date, sharp on the nose with a delightful whiff of watermelon. Tingly on the tongue with citrus fruits and a refreshing taste of summer watermelon. A lingering dry finish with just a twinkle of sweetness that continues to tantalize until the next taste. Honestly, the more I drink this wine, the more it tastes like a dangerously easy watermelon crush, which may be a good thing or a bad thing… I think good. Best time to drink: Happy Hour reconnecting with work colleagues you haven’t seen in person in 15 months. Retails at $33.

Gentleman Farmer Rosé Napa Valley

Now, this is a favorite summer find for me! I met the winemaker behind Gentleman Farmer Wines during my 30 days in Napa. I got to relax over drinks and nibbles on their patio and really got to know their wines. Their Rosé is the perfect patio dining summer sipper. With a color of rose petal pink, my immediate reaction, even before tasting this wine, is to smile. Simple nectarine on the nose. This wine is abundant with stone fruits of peach and plums on the palate. Smooth and so easy summer breezy and bright with a fun strawberry finish. Best time to drink: On the patio with new friends and cheese and nibbles. Retails at $39.

Frog’s Leap La Grenouille Rougante Rosé 2020

A delicate sunset pink color. Crisp and mineral clean on the nose, almost like fresh air with anticipation of a taste to follow. This Rosé is smooth on the palate with flavors of cantaloupe and peach. Zippy and delightful with a light finish and thoughts of the next sip.  Do I take it or leave it??  Seriously, you know the answer. 🍷🤪. Best time to drink: Hump day when you need a Wine Wednesday to break up the week. Retails at $20.

Do you have a favorite Rosé?

Rosé makes my day! Never a truer saying!