Sitting out on the deck discussing the Hudson Valley Wine Competition with John and Michael, John uncorked a 2010 De Rosa Rosé from Roanoke Vineyards he recently purchased on a trip to Long Island Wine Country. I was so excited because I am in search of Rosé and haven’t been able to get to the North Fork. So I grabbed phone for the picture and my notebook for the tasting notes.
This Rosé is from Roanoke Vineyards on the North Fork of Long Island – better known as “Long Island Wine Country.” It is a blend of 60% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Chardonnay. That’s quite a blend. It has .5% residual sugar and was tank fermented.
The color on this Rosé was a pale salmon. If I was to purchase this wine based on color, I would have overlooked it. I like my Rosé a little more pinkish. Maybe that’s the girl in me. I am also wondering if the Chardonnay had any effect on the palish color.
The wine had aromas of orange peel, grenache and roses leading the way to a crisp palate with fresh citrus fruits and hints of raspberry. The finish was a little bitter.
This wine sells for $18.
I am still waiting for that WOW factor.
