Summer in Provence: Rosé Required

July 30, 2012 4:39 pm

Nothing says Summer in Provence to me like a chilled bottle of rosé served alongside a late lunch or dinner with friends. Rosé is a festive wine that blends beautifully with the local foods and flavors of Provence, especially goat cheese, fish, and figs. We love sipping it after a meal, as well, while lingering around the table on a warm evening.  And while it is considered the signature drink of the South of France (rosés account for more than half the production of all Provençal wines) that doesn’t stop us from drinking it back in New York.  We served it at the dinner party we hosted with Jean-Georges at our Manhattan apartment last month.  No matter where I am, a glass of rosé has always signaled the kick-off to Summer. À votre santé!

My favorite rosés at the moment:

1. Chateau La Coste Rosé - Light and crisp, perfect for warm weather

2. Chateau Bealieu - A spectacular rosé

3. Domaine Ott, Clos Mireille 2011 - This is the rosé we served at our recent dinner party in New York, it was the perfect accompaniment to the meal Jean-Georges prepared