2009 Merryvale Stanly Ranch Estate Rose

The 2009 Merryvale Stanly Ranch Estate Rosé (winery) was a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Syrah grapes.  The wine was so dark that it was almost the color of a really light ruby red wine, with a nice orange pink tinge.  On the nose, there was a mix of cranberries, strawberries, and limes followed by a touch of thyme.  In the mouth, there were strawberries, cranberries, white pepper, limes, and thyme.  The wine had great acidity and a light-to-medium body.

Is this worth a glass after work? Definitely!  If you see this wine in the store, grab it; you won’t be disappointed. At $15, I was pleasantly surprised that this rosé offered more than I expected.  I tend to find that most rosés are forgettable, even if they’re refreshing on a hot summer night, but this wine had some nice cooking herb characteristics that enhanced the berry and citrus elements.  While it’s still not a wine that I would spend a lot of money on, it’s a good rosé for a quiet, relaxing Friday evening.

Question of the Day: Are you a rosé drinker?  If so, do you have a favorite?  If not, is there a particular reason that you avoid rosé wine?

Price: $15
Purchased at Lot18
Overall: 3.5 Corks