The summer season is officially underway with the arrival of numerous rosé wines. Because there’s no shortage of choice this year we picked 5 of those that will bring you smile and joy whether it’s for a late afternoon at the pool or for a pleasant evening with friends.

La Vieille Ferme Rosé LuberonLa Vieille Ferme, Famille Perrin, Luberon AOC, 2022, France

Once again, the Perrin family confirms its ability to deliver a consistently straightforward, well-made product. Massive bouquet of red fruits (strawberries and raspberries). Citrus and raspberry on the palate. This  is rather unctuous on the palate with a short but fresh finish. You can’t go wrong for that tiny price. (87)

Château d'Esclans Côtes de Provence Whispering Angel 2022Whispering Angel 2022, Côtes de Provence, Château d’Esclans, France

Bordeaux-born producer Sacha Lichine has an impressive track record of successful winemaking adventures in both the U.S. and France, and has restored Provence rosé to its former glory with a range of must-have wines. Predominantly Grenache, Whispering Angel, like an angelic sigh, exhales flavors whose quality undeniably expresses unrivaled expertise. Unusual elegance and delicacy, generous fruity notes of wild strawberry and a fresh, slightly full-bodied finish. Super class! (91)

Cono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Noir RoséCono Sur Bicicleta Pinot Noir Reserva 2022, Chile

Cono Sur winery and vineyard are located in Chimbarongo, in the heart of Chile’s Colchagua Valley. Cono Sur was founded in 1993 with the vision of producing quality, expressive and innovative wines that convey the spirit of the New World. A few years later, a specially designed Pinot Noir vinification facility was built, with the aim of combining Burgundian winemaking traditions with cutting-edge New World technology. This Pinot Noir has a tender pink color. Fruity aromas of red berries, such as raspberry and cherry, and citrus emanate. On the palate, it’s well-balanced, not very sweet, with fresh acidity and fruitiness. This wine is ideal as an aperitif. (87)

Gérard Bertrand Côte des RosesGérard Bertrand Côte des Roses 2022, France

I admit, the bottle is rather beautiful, with its rose-shaped base. Beyond this marketing argument, is the wine worth drinking? Former rugby player Gérard Bertrand delivers a fresh rosé. Grapefruit, stone fruit, everything is there to seduce. And the bottle can also be used as a water carafe afterwards. Maison Gérard Bertrand comprises a dozen châteaux and estates in the Pays d’Oc region of southern France, where nature is at the heart of all biodynamic viticultural activities. The company is actively involved in viticulture that is committed to a better future, allowing the terroir to express itself in all its nuances. (90).

La Bonhomme ValenciaLa Bonhomme, Valencia 2022, Spain

This tangy rosé from Canadian Nathalie Bonhomme, who has been working in Spain for some time now, is a real treat. A lovely structure of Monastrell (Spanish Mourvèdre) with plenty of crunchy fruit.  It’s refreshing, with a pleasant texture on the palate and well-fruited with strawberry and peach. A perfect accompaniment to seafood tapas and a friendly rosé just before the barbecue. (89).

Cheers !