I like the Riesling that this winery produces, so when I saw their Rosé on the shelf I figured there was a good chance it was worth a try.
The winery is part of the Chateau Ste Michelle stable of wineries, so the winemaker has access to good fruit and top shelf equipment to work with. David Rosenthall started with Ste Michelle in 2007 and then interned in Australia and Oregon before returning to be the Winemaker for the Anew label. He started with a delicious Riesling which has won numerous awards, and now also makes a Rosé and a Pinot Grigio.
The Rosé is made predominately from Sangiovese, with some Syrah. The label says it has aromas of strawberry, watermelon and peach, and I would agree. It also has a subtle note of tobacco leaf that a good Sangiovese red wine would have, but it works with this wine.
The palate has matching flavors and finishes with pleasant lingering fruit flavors, it's not bone dry but not sweet either. I tried this wine with a crumbly aged Cheddar dusted with powdered espresso beans from Ann's in Plainfield, no crackers, just the wine and cheese.
The Cheddar was old enough to have the salt crystals in it like a good aged Gruyere will, and that's a perfect match for a Riesling so I figured the rose would pair well with this... and it does. What a nice simple appetizer to enjoy before a meal, I'm thinking some other hard cheeses would also work. I also could see this wine working with grilled veggies, thick cut grilled pork chops, and perhaps dry rubbed baby back ribs cooked to fall apart condition....
Available at the NH Liquor outlets currently on sale for $9.99 per bottle, and at Total wine in Natick MA for $11.49 per bottle. This is a good value for the money, and supports a USA winery.
If you like a good Riesling, try their bottling which is also from WA state. I think you'll find it very tasty.
Cheers!
Ed
