Hot, sunny days are finally here in Chicago, and uncorking a tasty rosé is a great way to celebrate. Here are our top five recommendations, with something for everyone.
1. For the Burgundy Loyalist - Domaine Sylvain Pataille Marsannay Rosé
From Marsannay, one of nine villages in the Côte de Nuits, comes this gorgeous Pinot Noir rosé. It carries delicate notes of rose and fresh strawberries, supported by the structure and complexity you’d expect from any Pinot Noir born out of this region. Serve slightly chilled with your next summer salad, and enjoy this gorgeous wine.
2. For The Environmentalist - Marine Layer Carina Rosé 2024
Marine Layer is terroir-focused; organic farming, hand-harvesting, and a passion for quality guides their small production wines. The 2024 Carina Rosé in particular is a perfect way to celebrate the warm weather. This pinot noir rosé is clean and refreshing, featuring notes of tart citrus, ripe strawberry, and rose petal. This bright, fruit-forward bottle pairs particularly well with thyme roasted chicken, lobster, or white-rinded cheeses like Camembert and Brie.
3. For the Traditionalist - Chateau Galoupet Cotes de Provence Rosé, France 2022
If you’re the type of wine drinker that doesn’t mess around with the classics, the Château Galoupet is an excellent rosé choice typical of the Provence region. Fuller in body than the previous choices, this wine delivers notes of fresh roses, stone fruits, and has a pleasantly drawn-out finish. Pairing suggestion: enjoy with an herby grilled chicken.
4. For the Party - Domaines Ott Chateau de Selle Cotes de Provence Coeur de Grain Rosé, France 2023
If you recognize this bowling-pin shaped bottle, you have excellent taste in rosé! Domaines Ott is classic for a reason – this is a spicier, medium-bodied rosé with notes of wild berries, white pepper, and chalky minerality. It’s crisp and delicious, and sure to be a crowd pleaser.
5. For the Wine Geek - Nervi Conterno 'Il Rosato', Piedmont, Italy 2023
This wine is what happens when you take a beautifully floral Nebbiolo grown in the iconic Piemonte region and turn it into a rosé. Intense fruit (think bright, fresh cherry) is wonderfully balanced by a focused minerality. This serious and savory rosé is sure to pair well with charcuterie, and sure to impress your wine friends.
