Chilled dry rosé is the perfect wine for the dog days of summer. In fact, its tastes like summer. Known for its fresh aromas and flavors, rosé is the world’s most versatile food companion, complimenting all the fare of summer, including sausages, hamburgers, grilled chicken, crab or shrimp Louis, and a BLT sandwich piled high with heirloom tomatoes.
Rosé is the French word for pink, and although pink wines have been unfairly maligned as lacking “seriousness,” the refreshing simplicity of rosé is actually its draw. No contemplation needed, it’s ready to be enjoyed any time.
Rosé can be crafted from any red grape, but in the case of Domaine Triennes, the variety is principally cinsault blended with grenache, syrah, and merlot. The grapes are pressed after a few hours of skin contact to produce the pale pink hue, the juice is then fermented at low temperature until dry, and bottled early to retain maximum freshness.
Two famous names are behind this wine: Jacques Seysses, founder of Domaine Dujac in Burgundy, and Aubert de Villaine, co-owner of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. The estate’s name, Domaine de Triennes, comes from “trennia,” festivities that honor Bacchus that took place every third year in Roman times.
I was enamored with the wine’s bright aromas of strawberries, orange blossom, and citrus. Refined, smooth, and crisp on the palate, it captures the summer flavors of red berries, peaches, and lime, finishing with mouthwatering acidity.
2013 Triennes Rose is an attractive wine for both quality and price (about $15). Available in Orange County at Hi Time Wine Cellars and LCA Wine.
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