Saracina Rosé of Grenache 2023

Buy a case now, thank me later

With Labor Day weekend tucked into the rearview, we’re at the nominal end of summer. Sure we’ve got three weeks of the greatest season left, but our minds are inclined to consider it over. You and I should keep drinking Rosé though! Most importantly because well made Rosé’s are delicious and excellent partners for many flavors. Secondarily, because despite Rosé being an all weather beverage among the knowing, it’s still going to give you warm weather and exotic location vibes.

Saracina Rosé of Grenache 2023 ($24)

Saracina Vineyards is a ranch and winery in Mendocino comprised of 400 acres that’s certified sustainable. I recall first encountering an earlier vintage of this wine in the summer of 2020, and bringing it to meet a friend for Mexican food. It was my first outdoor dining experience during that challenging year. As my friend and I feasted on a veritable smorgasbord of Mexican flavors we marveled at how well The Saracina Rosé worked with literally everything in front of us. Jump forward a few years and this current vintage is perhaps more refined and delicious. Juicy red fruit aromas and flavors abound. Strawberry and Richmond Cherry are of note. Interwoven are bits of apricot and bright tangerine. The finish is persistent and refreshing. Firm acidity rings throughout and hangs it all in place beautifully.

I paired this with the traditional foods found at an American cookout on Labor Day, or any of the other “barbecue holidays.” It simply crushed with a hot dog and pushcart onions, it also worked well alongside slow cooked ribs and all the sides too. This is an absolutely delicious and well made Rosé which I’d be happy to drink any day of the year. Tuck a case away for Thanksgiving and it’ll be the hit of the table.