rosalindcooper

[rosalindcooper]

What better than a glass of Sofia pink sparkling wine in Marina del Rey sunshine? Francis Ford Coppola was a pioneer in so-called ‘celebrity wine’ here in California and set quite the benchmark. This delicate Pinot Noir sparkler is consciously modelled on fine (and underappreciated) Crémant de Loire from France and Sofia Coppola has struck just the right balance between a perfect aperitif wine and a wine to accompany food. Matched with a plate of spicy shrimp tacos this lychee/ cranberry fizz is in its element, but would also be a great match for a smoked salmon canapé. I award it 17. https://www.instagram.com/p/CqT6UFAP1v-/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

On this day when we celebrate women, I nominate Charlotte (Lolly) Krajewski, the stunningly talented winemaker at @clos_cantenac in Bordeaux. Her exceptional rosé sets a benchmark for the region (see my post in October 2021) and her innovative approach reflects her family’s international experience. This wine is worthy of a 19 in my new scoring system. Look out for a full review in my online Rosé Report (link in bio). You go girl ! https://www.instagram.com/p/Cph6g_ftYLp/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

Big news- from now on I will be awarding scores out of 20 for all wines reviewed here. These will all be collated in my online Rosé Report, with full reviews for you to consult. But no score for the wine you see here? Why not? It’s not a wine you will find unless you come to the Dordogne, where you will unearth any number of delectable and undervalued wines. Red, white and - occasionally- pink. Made with familiar Bordeaux grape varieties of course - with a twist of Bergerac. PS this particular organic wine was purchased at the local hypermarché for around 5 euros, and I would definitely rate it a 16. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpan5vOtLdE/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

It’s the season for a change of vintage with rosé wines, so you should find bargains on shelves everywhere as merchants prepare for summer and replace their 2021 bottles with fresh 2022. In the case of this refreshing Figuiere it is still glowing in the glass, redolent of fresh nectarine and wild herbs. I’m still in the Bordeaux/Bergerac region as I write. Continuing to seek great local pink (any recommendations?) but in the meantime this Provençal charmer fitted the bill with a dish of creamy mushroom arancini and a subtle salad of seasonal vegetables including endive and radish. https://www.instagram.com/p/CpIusgItPNT/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

A lunch in London with Faouzi Issa of Domaine des Tourelles: Lebanon’s first commercial winery back in 1868 and also producer of a pioneering rosé, since 1963. Cinsault is a key grape of the region, passionately celebrated and living its best life in this pink wine and the reds from the same winery. Faiouzi spent years working with top Rhône and Margaux producers so brings modern French know how to combine with exceptional grapes grown on the unique terroir of the Bekaa Valley, with 300 days of sunshine annually but also cool nights and ideal slopes. This pink has tremendous mouthfeel and a proper berry finish to accompany duck to perfection. A truly gastronomic rosé from an ancient wine region with a modern twist. https://www.instagram.com/p/CokXauHtTEQ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

Guess what? It’s National Pizza Day on Thursday! Any excuse to warm up with a tarted-up shop version- I add quality peperoncino oil from Italy and fresh basil. And, for a change, try yours with a bone dry pale pink from Aragon in Spain. The Campo de Borja region has glorious Garnacha vines, many over 40 years old, growing on steep slopes. It’s a challenging climate here with scorching summers and biting winters. The reds are generally excellent and the smaller rosé production often overlooked. Time to remedy that and enjoy the clean, crisp charm of this affordable wine. The acidity balances the cheesy richness of pizza with aplomb. https://www.instagram.com/p/CoXL5iPNOpH/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

In the beginning - there was Tavel. When I lectured on wine to university students in California decades ago this corner of the Rhône Valley was cited as a benchmark for rosé. These powerful (14.5%) wines are still just as fine as ever, but below the radar for many wine lovers - and a world away from pallid pink Pinot Grigio. The deep russet tones in the glass hint at what’s to come - a rounded, rich mouthful of mature, assertive rosé. This is serious wine to be sipped, not swigged- and to be served alongside full flavoured food like sardines, anchovies or salty charcuterie. Add some spicy green new seasoning olive oil and crusty French bread to savour at its best. A rosé that actually warns your palate- and lingers on the tastebuds. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn_5ZMwtokl/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

On an icy day in Bath my heart was gladdened by a glass of rosé with a ruby tint and an earthy Grenache warmth on the finish. Who says only red wine can warm you? After a relaxing moment #coppaclub my lunch was #yumyumthai and this Languedoc pink would make an excellent pair for Thai food too. Also recommend an excellent light drenched exhibition of works by English artists old and new #victoriaartgallerybath https://www.instagram.com/p/Cnr5k7zNn0U/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

So- adieu 2022 and here’s to a rose tinted 2023. DM me if you would like to rent this lovely holiday home amid the Bordeaux vines…. https://www.instagram.com/p/CnC6JMWNi5P/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

If you are thinking about serving some decadent lobster or langoustine as part of your New Year feasting - then pair it with this affordable yet elegant pink from the Dão region of Portugal. Touriga Nacional is the local dominant grape and this is also at the heart of Douro wine and port. It gives structure to this wine, making it ideal with creamy dishes yet at the same time there is abundant charm here- just a hint of fragrant fennel on the palate and a finish of delicate fruit. Versatile and stunning value - like so many Portuguese wines. PS- discovered these amazing Rosé eye gels for after the party - they may not be made with actual pink wine but trust me - they really work! https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmtkx_Fte4Q/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

If you are thinking about serving some decadent lobster or langoustine as part of your New Year feasting - then pair it with this affordable yet elegant pink from the Dão region of Portugal. Touriga Nacional is the local dominant grape and this is also at the heart of Douro wine and port. It gives structure to this wine, making it ideal with creamy dishes yet at the same time there is abundant charm here- just a hint of fragrant fennel on the palate and a finish of delicate fruit. Versatile and stunning value - like so many Portuguese wines. PS- discovered these amazing Rosé eye gels for after the party - they may not be made with actual pink wine but trust me - they really work! https://www.instagram.com/p/CmtkVcftMCD/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

Happy Boxing Day! May your wines be pink! https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmn_AUftz36/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

Home chefs get a lift from rosé - it’s official! Stir up a Seasonal Storm while sipping a modest 175ml bottle of oh so refreshing Fleurs de Prairie through a (paper or bamboo) straw. Those delicate cherry and citrus flavours are sure to make cooking a breeze. This affordable Provence pink will also charm any early arrivals and get the party started. With its hint of confectionery on the finish it pairs brilliantly with Asian snacks like crab cakes or samosas. https://www.instagram.com/p/CmR3_ZhNMLr/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

Try some Loire rosé this Christmas ! https://www.instagram.com/p/CmB2ZWct8UN/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

Whatever happened to Rosé d’Anjou? Delicate pinks that are low in alcohol (around 11%) and often created from the fabulous but oft-neglected Cabernet Franc grape, with its distinctive aromas of mulberry, fresh almond and a dash of white pepper. This example from Calvet has all of these and a rounded mouthfeel with a hint of candied fruit - very seasonal. Try with a warm mince pie for a different twist, or echo Loire cuisine by serving with smoked eel or trout. https://www.instagram.com/p/CmB2BDkNf9h/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

Ah … Tempranillo… a grape to conjure summer in a glass and on this icy night in the UK you’d be surprised how warming this rosé can be. From one of Rioja’s most exemplary and food friendly bodegas this scrumptious tipple is perfect for a relaxed kitchen supper with friends. Serve it with your choice of Spanish tidbits- Manchego cheese, Jamon, dried figs, olives. And something warm- tortilla omelette, patatas bravas… some succulent fish. On the nose there are sharp cherries, then a good long lingering finish. Let’s celebrate - the fact that pink wine brings us joy year round…? https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl4ZJGlt1MC/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[rosalindcooper]

A glorious combination of French winemaking talent and ideal organic grape growing conditions in Argentina results in this fascinating pink. Here in Gualtallary at the limits of viticulture (5249 feet) Jean Bousquet found his passion project back in 1990. Pushing boundaries has paid off. This is a rosé that intrigues the palate, it’s a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Syrah and Viognier. There is a depth of flavour here and a degree of elegance that would complement sophisticated cuisine. Cannot help thinking of truffles…. https://www.instagram.com/p/Clq7ZS_N7Ea/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=