Looking Ahead to July

Now that the June issue of the Review of Washington Wines is on line, I have started work on the July issue which goes live June 26. I have appointments lined up at Northstar, Kerloo Cellars and Prospice (2020 reds). Samples wii be shipped from Hard Row to Hoe and Nefarious in Chelan. And more is in the works, along with a bevy of new 2022 Rosés.

New 2022 French Rosés

2022 Vignobles Florian Andre Rosé Vin de France ($16.90 - Foodscape, Walla Walla) - This comes from outside Tavel in the South Rhône. It shows a brilliant copper-pink color and attractive aromas of strawberry, cantaloupe, pink grapefruit, orange blossoms, pink lilac and whiffs of orange incense. The flavors, as well, are appealing, with pink and orange fruits that are accented on the back by grape skins, melon rind, grapefruit peel, followed by a bright, juicy finish. Super value. 18+/20 points.

2022 Château Les Mesclances Côte Provence Rosé, "Romane" ($22 - The Thief, Walla Walla) - This presents a light pink-tinged gold color and attractive aromas of strawberry, pomegranate, pink grapefruit, pink roses, pink lavender and yellow incense. The flavors are fresh and bright, with pink and yellow fruits that are accented by grape skins, pomegranate seeds and Provence minerals. The vibrancy continues on the back with fraise liqueur and a twist of grapefruit peel on the nicely juiced finish. 18.5/20 points.

2022 La Bastide Blanche Bandol Rosé ($31.90 - Foodscape) - Composed of Mourvèdre, Grenache, Cinsault and Clairette, this is an outstanding Rosé. Deep, brilliant copper colored, it emits seductive aromas of wild strawberries, nectarine, cantaloupe, blood orange with scents of orange blossoms, day lilies, lavender and spiced orange incense. The flavors, as well, are dramatic, with pink and orange fruits that are vivid and mouth encompassing, marked by grape skins and Var minerals. On the back, the wine gains depth with fraise liqueur, melon rind and orange peel, followed by s spiced (nutmeg, clove, cardamom) ripe finish, lifted by bright fruit acids. Lynn: 3 of 3 stars. 19.5/20 points.