Club Corner
Rosé Club October 2026
Clos Cibonne Cuvée Tradition 2024 First off, our bad for intimating, in last month’s notes, that the September’s selection would be the final bottling of the season. October, frequently the warmest month of the year here in SF, clearly deserves a dedicated shade of pink all its own. So, by way of apologizing for our error (and for it technically being November now), we have a real treat for you in this, the actual final installment of 2026. Back in May 2025, we featured two rosés composed in part of the rare Provencal varietal Tibouren. Here’s what we said about it then: “A thin-skinned black grape thought to have originated in Mesopotamia, Tibouren is distinguished by its intensely aromatic nose and herbal palate (a combination often called ‘garrigue’ in wine, after the Mediterranean vegetation, and denoting flavors of bay leaf, thyme, rosemary and sage), and various difficulties associated with its cultivation. Tibouren tends to produce irregular yields and is highly susceptible to coulure or “shatter,” which is when the grape fails to develop after flowering due to the plant’s metabolic response to extreme or unseasonal weather conditions. The mild and consistent climate along the Mediterranean coast thus provides its most propitious conditions, but even here, we’re talking about truly miniscule quantities.” Both of those bottles contained no more than 15% Tibouren however, the majority being made up of familiar Rhone varietals like Grenache and Mourvedre. What we have here instead is the only Tibouren-dominant rosé in existence as far as we know: Clos Cibonne’s iconic, one-of-a-kind flagship Cuvée Tradition. Legendary amongst wine collectors for its texture, substance, and ability to age gracefully for a decade or more, it is a limited wine made exclusively with estate-grown, organic Tibouren grapes, and a bit of grenache to meet Côtes de Provence blending guidelines. The key to its singularity is the fact that the wine is aged in century-old foudres under a veil of flor, a technique more commonly associated with the Jura or Jerez. The result is an utterly unique, complex, and transportive experience, redolent of the stunning Mediterranean land and sea scapes from which it hails. Indeed, if forced to drink only one rosé for the rest of our lives, we very well might choose this one - and not even lament our cruel fate all that much. See you in 2027 and… Think Pink! The PlumpJack Wine & Spirits Team Clos Cibbone Cuvee Tradition 2024 Region/Country of Origin: Cotes de Provence, France About the Winemaking: The vineyard, one of 18 Crus Classés of Côtes de Provence, consists of traditional goblet trained vines located close to the Mediterranean Sea in the foothills of the Maures mountains, overlooking Toulon’s harbor. The microclimate of Clos Cibonne is especially important to the uniqueness of the wines, as the proximity of the ocean brings much needed cool air to the vineyards in the summer months. Their location at the foot of the Maures mountains ensures good east-west ventilation, which is ideal for the health and balance of the vineyard. After an early morning manual harvest, the grapes are destemmed and directly pressed. The must goes into temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, which are cooled to slow the fermentation process. After fermentation with native yeasts, the wine is racked into 120+ year-old foudres, where it ages biologically on the fine lees for one year sous-voile, under a thin veil of fleurette. Tasting Notes: “The 2024 Rosé Cuvée Tradition is a wild, exotic wine. Aged sous-voile in foudre for one year, this blend of 90% Tibouren and 10% Grenache unleashes a heady array of beeswax, stewed peach, chamomile, toasted bread and wild herbs. It’s a waxy, enveloping, utterly distinctive Rosé that is very much on the cerebral side, and also pushing the limits of VA. Quite honestly, the Tradition is unlike anything else I’ve ever tasted. Readers who haven’t tasted these wines before owe it to themselves to do so.” (BN) (Vinous.) Winemaker: Olivier Deforges Price per bottle /varietal $46.99 100% Tibouren Suggested Food Pairing: Grilled branzino with olive oil and lemon, Niçoise salad, Scallops, Goat cheese, Bouillabaisse
Learn more
Rosé Club August 2026
A Tale of Two Rosés This month we’re taking rosé in two very different directions. From Piemonte in northern Italy, Ecole Piemonte D.O.C. Rosato brings the bright, easygoing side of pink wine: fresh, dry, lively, and bottled in a generous one-liter format made for sharing. Then we travel to France’s Southern Rhône for Château de Trinquevedel Tavel 2024, a deeper, more structured expression of rosé from an appellation celebrated for serious, food-friendly pink wines. Two countries, two personalities, and a great reminder that rosé is a style of wine - not a single style of wine. Think Pink! The PlumpJack Wine & Spirits Team ERCOLE PIEMONTE D.O.C. ROSATO Region/Country of Origin: Piemonte, Italy About the Winery: Ercole, whose English translation is Hercules, is made possible by a generations-old cooperative of local growers in the Monferrato area. The cooperative behind Ercole works predominantly with old vines ranging from 30 to 50 years old. All participating growers adhere to the European Union rule for sustainable farming known as lotta integrata, or lutte raisonnée, though many are now certified organic. None of these growers use systemic treatments or chemicals, employing only minimal copper and sulfur. Both vinification and bottling are certified vegan. About the Winemaking: With the aromatic draw of fresh-cut watermelon, this rosato screams summertime in all its resplendent fun. Two stalwart grapes of Monferrato, Barbera and Dolcetto, form this lively rosato. Following a soft pressing of the grapes, the juice is left in contact with the skins for only a few hours, lending the wine its light pink hue. 65% Barbera 35% Dolcetto. Tasting Notes: Fresh and lively, with bright red-fruit character and an easy, dry finish. Light on its feet and wonderfully versatile, this is the bottle to chill down for an aperitivo, picnic, or relaxed summer dinner. Winemaker: Cooperative Price per bottle / Price per case: $20.99/$226.70 Suggested Food Pairing: Antipasti, prosciutto and melon, Margherita pizza, grilled vegetables, or tomato and burrata. CHÂTEAU DE TRINQUEVEDEL 2024 TAVEL ROSÉ Region/Country of Origin: Tavel, Southern Rhône, France About the Winery: Château Trinquevedel, with its elegant 18th-century bastide house, is one of Tavel’s most prestigious historic estates. Acquired in 1936 by Eugène Demoulin, it is now in the hands of his great-grandson, Guillaume Demoulin. Accompanied by his wife Céline , he manages the family estate with passion and tradition, revealing the authenticity of their terroir in their wines. About the Winemaking: 60% Grenache, 13% Clairette, 13% Syrah, 10% Cinsault, 3% Mourvèdre, 1% Bourboulenc. From vines with an average age of 32 years old. The wine is aged in enamel-lined, stainless steel curves for 6 to 9 months. Tasting Notes: Deeply colored and more vinous than a typical pale rosé, with wild strawberry, raspberry, tart red-fruit notes, and a touch of spice. The palate is full and fleshy yet fresh, with enough structure to carry an entire meal Winemaker: Guillaume Demoulin Price per bottle / Price per case: $22.99/$248.30 Suggested Food Pairing: Grilled fish, charcuterie, roast chicken, spicy dishes, or Provençal cuisine.
Learn more
May Rosé Club: Return of Rosé Club
It’s been a long time, we shouldn’t have left you/without a strong wine to fête to. It’s May already (almost June actually) and apologies are in order. First, to Eric B & Rakim, for the above travesty of a classic - and more importantly to you, member, for this club’s winterlong hibernation. But with the solstice fast approaching, and Rosé season in full swing, we’re back with two new shades of summer to sample while you get some (theoretical in SF sometimes, tbh) sun. One is a local gem from a veteran winemaker’s passion project; the other a scarlet variant of the Portuguese Vinho Verde style: light, dry, low ABV, with a hint of effervescence. Both pair well with whatever weather, and we’ve got more coming through September. Think Pink, Fillmore Wine Team Chasing Ether Rose 3.1/1 2025 Region/Country of Origin: Sonoma, California About the Winery: Chasing Ether is a new project from a man that has been quietly making top shelf Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for one of Napa's most historic wineries for over 2 decades, but is now producing wines from some amazing sites across California and showcasing some of the state's hidden treasures. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Jon Berlin later moved to Cape Town for the surfing, before falling into wine at the turn of the century. After working his first harvest in the Western Cape, Jon quickly bounced around both hemispheres, working multiple harvests a year across South Africa, Australia, Napa, Sonoma Coast, and New Zealand. It was in New Zealand, where he earned a degree in winemaking and met his future wife Lily Oliver, daughter of Reginald Oliver, the owner/winemaker at El Molino. The plan had been to make wine in South Africa, but when Lily’s father passed away in 2005 the two of them moved back to Napa to take over the winery. While Jon would do some consulting winemaking on the side, for the next 20 years the focus would be on El Molino. Lily and Jon worked side by side, crafting expressive and distinctly Californian Pinot and Chardonnay from the Star Vineyard in Rutherford while also running the day-to-day operations. After leaving El Molino in 2024 Jon decided to focus all his energy on a new project with the goal of making affordable wines that were approachable out of the gate About the Winemaking: 100-year-old Mourvèdre and Carignan were harvested together at 21 and 19 Brix, respectively. Combined and whole cluster pressed to tank with overnight settling before being racked for cold fermentation in tank. The cold fermentation lasted 35 days before dryness was achieved. The wine was sulphured, racked with fine lees to tank, and kept cool for 3 months. The 110-year-old Palomino was harvested, and whole-cluster pressed to neutral French Burgundy barrels for fermentation. The wine stayed on primary lees until February, when one barrel was racked and blended with the Mourvèdre/Carignan blend in tank before being bottled on February 18th, 2026. 200 cases produced. Alcohol, 13%. Vegan-friendly. Tasting Notes: Lifted aromatics of freshly cut watermelon, guava, grapefruit pith, candied orange rind, and tarragon. Complex and refreshingly crisp with a lovely smooth viscosity and cut with a lasting impression on the finish. Winemaker: Jon Berlin Price per bottle / Price per case: $24.99 btl/ $294.37 cs Suggested Food Pairing: Fresh seafood such as citrus cured salmon, white gazpacho, and Toulouse sausage. Quinta da Lixa Anjos Rose Vinho Verde 2024 Region/Country of Origin: About the Winery: Owned and operated by the Meireles family from the town of Vila da Lixa since the mid-1980s, Quinta da Lixa began its life as a cellar-door vendor of what the locals lovingly called o tal vinho da Lixa – ‘that Lixa wine’. The family had great foresight in acquiring estate vineyard land early on and over the ensuing decades, ensuring an increasingly consistent source of high-quality and relatively low-cost estate-grown grapes. The 1990s saw the construction of a new winery devoted to transitioning the family business from bulk local-market sales to estate bottling. Another piece of the puzzle was completed in the early 2000s with the hiring of Carlos Teixeira, a local who had left town to make his name as one of Portugal’s most respected oenologists. He’s still at the helm of this beloved winery today, producing textbook Vinhos Verdes at an unimpeachable level of quality for the very modest price point. About the Winemaking: All wines are estate bottled and sustainably farmed using organic principles. Slightly trapped CO2 compliments the injection of clean CO2 at bottling, to make a vivacious, intentionally fresh and mildly spritzy wine. Tasting Notes: The floral exuberance of the aroma leads to a lively, refreshing palate with ripe berry and currant flavors. The slightly red Espadeiro grape (60%) brings strawberry, currant and cranberry nuances, blended with the heartier Touriga Nacional (40%) to make a complex and serious style of Vinho Verde Rose. Winemaker: Carlos Teixeira Price per bottle / Price per case: $13.99 btl / $165.32 cs Suggested Food Pairing: Fried green tomatoes, grilled seafood, ceviche, citrus salad
Learn more
July Rosé Club
Summer Vacation Rosé With our cold and grey summer in full effect, it’s nice to get away to somewhere warm, or at the least enjoy a nice rosé from a sunny locale. This month we have two rosés from coastal areas to help conjure those relaxing Mediterranean vibes. Both regions also share a long lived tradition of winemaking deeply intertwined with their local communities and landscape. Sitting in the northern section of the Vinho Verde DOC, Lima spans the Atlantic ocean to the west and the mountainous region bordering Trás-os-Montes to the east. Split in half by the Lima river and with some of the highest rainfall in the region, it has a warm Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and wet mild winters. It can lay claim to one of the oldest, if not the oldest town in Portugal, dating back 1125 AD, three years before Portugal began to split from Spain. Wines from this region were also some of the first to reach the rest of Europe in the 16th century, traveling north with cod. While the main white varietal here is Loureiro, native to this region of Portugal, the red grapes Vinhão (known as Souzão in the Douro Valley), Borraçal, and Espadeiro are the basis of their pink wines, which share the same signature effervescence as the whites. Though it only gained DOC status in 1995, Italy’s Costa d’Amalfi has a winemaking history dating back to 600 BC when the Greeks first planted vines. This tradition was continued by the Romans who located some of their earliest vineyards here as well. It was difficult work then, and remains so today. For while Amalfi’s sheer cliff faces and rugged terrain make for stunning views, the jagged landscape means vineyards have to be picked by hand, as mechanical harvesting is nearly impossible. This remoteness has actually helped protect the vineyards from succumbing to the tourism industry’s lucrative scythe, as has happened in the nearby islands of Capri and Ischia. In 1997, the entire Costa D’Amalfi was designated a UNESCO world heritage site, ensuring its specific history, culture and terroir will endure. As in the rest of the larger Campania region, Aglianico and Piedirosso (known here as Per ‘e Palumm) are the predominant red grapes here, grown on clay and limestone soils at high elevation, producing long lived wines. Think Pink, Justin Malesheetz PlumpJack Fillmore Wine Buyer Adega Cooperativa de Ponte da Barca ‘Este’ Vinho Verde Rosé Region/Country of Origin: DOC Vinho Verde, Portugal About the Winery: Beginning in 1963 but becoming properly active in 1968, this cooperative boasts over 1000 members and covers nearly 900 hectares (2224 acres) straddling the Lima, Vade, and Vez rivers around the municipalities of Ponte da Barca and Arcos de Valdevez in the central region of the Lima Valley where it is warmer and less humid than the coastal regions. They focus on the indigenous Portuguese varietals Loureiro and Vinhão, which thrive in the warm mediterranean weather About the Winemaking: 40% Vinhão, 30% Borraçal, and 30% Espadeiro pressed separately and fermented in temperature controlled vats. Tasting Notes: Pale pink veering towards salmon in the glass with a nose showing notes of strawberry, red cherry, and ruby grapefruit. Slightly effervescent and juicy on the palate with bright acidity and flavors of fresh ripe red berries and a citrusy, slightly saline finish of good length. Winemaker: José Oliveira Price per bottle / Price per case: $9.99 btl/ $107.89 cs Suggested Food Pairing: Fried green tomatoes, grilled seafood, ceviche, citrus salad Cantine Marisa Cuomo Costa d’Amalfi Rosato Region/Country of Origin: Costa d’Amalfi DOC, Italy About the Winery: Originally started in 1942 as part of a collective to sell the wines of the Furore Coast, Cantine was purchased in 1980 by Andrea Ferraiolo as a wedding gift to his wife, Marisa Cuomo. Since then, Marisa has dedicated herself to protecting and reviving native varietals and, along with oenologist Luigi Moio of the Quintodecimo Winery, crafting age worthy wines that can only come from the Amalfi Coast. About the Vineyard: Nestled in the hamlet of Vietri Sul Mare west of Salerno, the south facing terraced vineyards are carved into the Dolomitic-limestone cliffside 40-250 meters (130-800 feet) above the sea. Densely planted with the vines trained horizontally to produce air flow, protecting the grapes from disease pressure and too much sunlight during the summer months. About the Winemaking: 50% Aglianico and 50% Piedirosso hand picked from terraces 300-400 metres above sea level that is then pressed softly and cold macerated for 10-12 hours before fermentation to bring out not only a more vivid color, but also coax more flavor and aroma compounds from the wine. The wine is then fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks for 20 days and aged for a further 4 months. Tasting Notes: Pale pink with a nose of dried herbs and fresh red berries. Medium bodied and fresh on the palate with flavors of red cherry and pomegranate and a dry mineral finish that holds on. Winemaker: Marisa Cuomo Price per bottle / Price per case: $30.99 btl/ $371.88 cs Suggested Food Pairing: Antipasti, cioppino, pescado a la Veracruzana, pecorino, aged gouda
Learn more
March 2025 Rose Club: Women Wine Makers
As we celebrate Women’s History month every March, we decided to seek out rosés from female winemakers. Cline Family Cellars was founded by Fred Cline in 1989. He learned winemaking from his grandfather and is passing on his knowledge to the next generation, many of whom are women. In fact, they have a whole page on their website dedicated to all of the women in their business! They hold dear the tradition of passing on their values: commitment to quality, focus on sustainability, and a strong sense of unity to the future. It's in these principles that they find our inspiration. Their goal is simple: to create wines that not only taste exceptional but also become a part of your family's lasting memories. Assistant winemaker Katie Hoggins brings a wealth of expertise and passion to Cline Family Cellars, with a phenomenal palate and global winemaking experience that spans both small boutique wineries and large-scale operations, including Spy Valley in her home country of New Zealand, Cave de Ribeauville in the Alsace region, Chehelam Wines in Oregon, and Clos du Bois in Napa. Her journey in winemaking has taken her across diverse regions and styles, enriching her understanding of what it takes to craft exceptional wines. Katie's enthusiasm for pushing boundaries and creating wines that excite the palate is matched by her direct, efficient, and innovative approach to the craft. Her vision perfectly aligns with the forward-thinking spirit of the next generation at Cline Family Cellars, where she plays an integral role in shaping the winery's future while honoring its legacy. Cambria Wines was one of the first wineries in the Santa Maria Valley, and they’ve got some serious cred behind them. In fact, the part of their estate that was originally called the Tepusquet Vineyard was one of the first vineyards planted in the region, back in 1971. More than just a beautiful place for growing grapes, it brought attention to the Santa Maria Valley and inspired others to realize the potential of this unique winegrowing region. In 1986, founders Barbara Banke and Jess Jackson bought that vineyard and established Cambria. After 34 years of cultivating grapes and people, there’s a lotta love and pride on this estate. Cambria is rooted in female leadership. For over 30 years, we've been champions of women, the environment, and how the world of wine can work together to create a more equitable and sustainable future. Winemaker Jill Russell knew from a young age that she wanted to be a winemaker. After getting a degree at Cal Poly SLO, which included a semester learning winemaking in Adelaide, Australia, she came back to the Central Coast and worked as assistant winemaker at Steven Ross for 5 years. She then went to the Menetou-Salon region to work a harvest in the Loire Valley and traveled throughout France expand her knowledge and her palate. Back stateside, she joined Paul Lato at his boutique Santa Barbara winery, diving into Sta. Rita Hills, our beautiful Santa Maria Valley, and stoking her enduring love of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Knowing she was right where she wanted to be, the chance to join Cambria as Winemaker was a no-brainer and, she still maintains, the opportunity of a lifetime. She loves working with the vineyards throughout our estate and getting to know them on a block-by-block basis, digging into the clones, soils, and microclimates. Her passion and unique energy are in every bottle. Jill, her husband and live-in chef Torrey, and cheerful dog Sansa, are proud residents of Los Alamos – a tiny country town just 15 minutes South of the winery. Think Pink! Carrie Upson- General Manager & Wine Buyer 2023 Cline Mourvedre Rosé Location: Contra Costa County, California About the Vineyards: Three vineyards planted in the deep, sandy soil of Contra Costa supply us with this Mourvèdre. These vineyards benefit from the evening cooling effects of the San Joaqin and Sacramento Rivers which allows the grapes to hold their bright acid character. The combination of extremely well drained sandy soil and low average rainfall create a tonnage-limiting environment that produces grapes with great intensity. They are farmed specifically for making Rosé in the traditional French style, picking whole clusters from fully mature Mourvèdre vines and pressed immediately to create a wine with amazing vibrancy. About the Winemaking: Picked with vibrant acidity at low sugars, the grapes are hand harvested and brought to the winery where it is immediately pressed with only the first portion of free-run juice used to impart only the lightest color yet retain all the fresh fruit flavors. It is settled for 48 hours before being racked and inoculated for a cool fermentation at about 55F. Once fermentation is complete it is racked before being blended and bottled fresh before Spring the following year. Tasting Notes: In the wonderful tradition of rosés found in Portugal, Spain, Italy and France, this Mourvèdre Rosé is perfect on its own, well-chilled. It shows pleasant aromas of fresh strawberry, watermelon and floral notes. On the palate, the light body, packed with fresh fruit flavors and a notable crisp finish, with tart strawberry, juicy watermelon, tangy orange and lemon, hint of cardamom and vanilla. Winemaker: Katie Hoggins Price: $15.99 btl/ $172.69 Suggested Food Pairing: Hamachi kama, Whole roasted barramundi, Ratatouille, BBQ chicken wings. 2023 Cambria Rosé of Pinot Noir Location: Santa Maria, California About the Vineyard: Julia’s Vineyard, named for Julia Jackson in 1986, consists of ancient soils with fossilized seashells, shale, limestone and sand, with fog swept vines that have endured since the 1970s. Julia’s Vineyard Rosé of Pinot Noir is crafted with intention and farmed from specific blocks on the estate. The Pinot Noir grapes are selected just for this wine to be lively, fresh, and expressive. About The Winemaking: Whole cluster pressed. Fermented exclusively in stainless steel. No malolactic fermentation. 100% clone 115 Pinot Noir. Tasting Notes: This Rosé of Pinot Noir has pronounced aromas of white peach, strawberry, and citrus. The palate is medium bodied, with balancing and refreshing acidity, leading to a finish that expresses watermelon and grapefruit. A summer favorite, perfect for brunch or a picnic. Winemaker: Jill Russell Price: $23.99 btl/$205.09 case Suggested Food Pairing: Beet and feta salad, shrimp ceviche, French brie and strawberry jam, bruschetta.
Learn more
Rose Club December 2024: Atypical Rosés
Atypical Rosés As 2024 comes to a close, we find ourselves back in France enjoying some rosés from regions better known for other wines. The Alsace wine region is best known for Rieslings, while Sancerre is more often equated with white wines made from Sauvignon Blanc. But as we’ve learned over the years, you can make rosé pretty much anywhere from pretty much any grape, so we trust that you’ll enjoy these rosés that will help you gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of winemaking in these renowned regions. The Alsace AOC, located in northeastern France along the Rhine River and bordering Germany and Switzerland, is renowned for its distinctive white wines and picturesque vineyards. It is one of France's most iconic wine regions, offering a unique combination of French and Germanic influences in its winemaking traditions and culture. The Romans introduced viticulture to the Alsace region in ancient times, and after the fall of the Roman Empire, viticulture was preserved by monasteries, where monks tended vineyards and improved winemaking techniques. In the Golden Ages (13th-15th centuries), Alsace was one of the largest and most prestigious wine-producing regions in Europe. Alsace became part of France in 1648 under the Treaty of Westphalia, introducing French administrative and legal systems to the wine trade. Land redistribution under Napoleon divided large vineyard estates, creating the patchwork of small plots still seen today. In the 1870’s Alsace was annexed by Germany, leading to shifts in wine styles and export markets, but with Germany's defeat in World War I, the Treaty of Versailles (1919) officially returned Alsace and Lorraine to France. Crémant d’Alsace is a sparkling wine made using the traditional method, often from Pinot Blanc or other local grapes. Crémant and Champagne are made in the same traditional method, where the base wine goes through primary fermentation, then secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle, but Crémants only need to be aged for a minimum of 9 months in bottle, where Champagne must be aged at least 15 months. The Sancerre wine region is a renowned appellation located in the Loire Valley of France. It is celebrated for producing some of the finest Sauvignon Blanc wines in the world, as well as notable Pinot Noir. It encompasses approximately 15 villages, including Sancerre, Chavignol, and Bué. The Loire River moderates temperatures and protects vines from extreme weather, and its continental climate with warm summers and cold winters make it an ideal environment for viticulture. The region's winemaking also dates back to Roman times when the first vines were introduced to the area, and by the 12th century, Sancerre became a hub for wine production. In the 14th and 15th centuries, the wines of Sancerre gained prominence and were highly sought after by the French nobility. In the 19th century, the arrival of the phylloxera epidemic devastated vineyards across Europe, including Sancerre. When the vineyards were replanted, growers increasingly chose Sauvignon Blanc for its adaptability to the region’s soils and climate. This marked a shift in focus toward white wine production. The Sancerre appellation was officially granted AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) status in 1936 for white wines, followed by red and rosé wines in 1959. Think Pink, Carrie Upson Domaine Laporte Sancerre Rosé Grandmontains Region/Country of Origin: Loire Valley, France About the Vineyards: Domaine Laporte property covers 21 hectares (52 acres) in the heart of the Sancerre appellation, planted with Sauvignon Blanc for the whites, and Pinot Noir for the reds and rosés. Each of our wines is vinified separately, expressing the type of soil on which the vines are grown. This wine comes from a terroir where the Pinot Noir vines are planted on the crest of south, southwest-facing slopes. This privileged location produces a Sancerre that we love to savor for its youth and fruitiness. About the Winemaking: Manually harvested grapes are de-stemmed. After 24 hours of maceration, the vat is bled and the rosé undergoes fermentation at temperatures ranging from 18° to 20°C (64 to 68°F) over 8 days. No malolactic fermentation. The wine is left on its fine lees until bottling at the beginning of April. Tasting Notes: "This dry rosé is uplifting and refreshing, with an underlying Pinot Noir varietal character. Salmon in color, the wine has a nose of orange zest, strawberry, white blossom and dried cranberry. On the palate the wine shows moments of creaminess while remaining bright on the long finish." Winemaker: Cedric Bourgeois Price per bottle / Price per case: $21.99 btl/ $269.89 cs Suggested Food Pairing: Grilled veggie skewers, cold cuts, Asian cuisine Hubert Meyer Cremant d’Alsace Rosé Region/Country of Origin: Alsace, France About the Wine: The Meyer family has a tradition as vignerons in Blienschwiller that dates back to 1722. In 1976, Hubert Meyer succeeded his father as the head of the domaine. His son, Pierre, returned from his studies of viticulture and oenology to take the torch and continue the tradition in 2009. The wines display finesse and elegance. Precision and balance provide the experience of a lifetime and express the tradition of the Meyer family as well as the historic Alsacian village of Blienschwiller. About the Winemaking: Grapes are manually harvested, then go through a 4-hour slow pressing, 36 hours of cold stabilization, and 2 months of fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Secondary fermentation occurs in bottle, then the bottles are aged sur latte for 18 months. Tasting Notes: The color is a gorgeous pink. The bubbles are elegant and constant expressing beautiful finesse. Bright red fruits along with persistent acidity provides a long finish. Winemaker: Pierre Meyer Price per bottle / Price per case: $23.99/ $259.09 Suggested Food Pairing: Winter squash, Cream of Mushroom soup, apple pie à la mode
Learn more
July 24 Rose Club: Italian Rosato
Despite a long tradition of making highly rated rosé, both Italian production and consumption of rosato, as they call it, has been falling since 2000. Not many bottlings make it to the United States either, but when found they represent exceptional values and, typically, offer a stark contrast in aroma and taste to French and domestic shades of pink alike. So this month we decided to bring you two Italian rosés for summer sipping! Tuscany, famed for its rich reds, has also garnered a reputation for producing superb rosé. The diverse terroir and warm Mediterranean climate of this region yield optimal growing conditions for grapes, resulting in refreshing and refined rosés. Tuscany boasts an extensive selection, predominantly crafted from the Sangiovese grape, as well as other native varieties like Canaiolo and Colorino. These grapes contribute lively acidity and distinct flavors that set Tuscan rosés apart. Exhibiting a delicate pale pink hue, these wines often exude fragrances of ripe fruits like strawberries, cherries, and watermelon, accompanied by subtle floral undertones. Our Tuscan selection this month comes from one of the oldest sites in the region. Close to excavations of an Etruscan township, it is possible that wine has been produced at Riecine for thousands of years. Church archives from 1112 A.D. provide the earliest known record of the place, and a nearby monastery owned the land from that date into the 20th century. In 1971, John Dunkley, a British businessman, and his Italian wife, Palmina Abbagnano-Dunkley, purchased the land and founded the Riecine label. Farming organically from start, John and Palmina quickly established Riecine as a vital source of first rate Chianti Classico. The care with which they approached their flagship reds is evident in their ‘Palmina’ rose of Sangiovese as well. Situated in the heart of Italy, Abruzzo is also renowned for its exquisite rosé. With a centuries-old winemaking legacy, this region has mastered the art of crafting elegant and invigorating pink that captivate wine enthusiasts worldwide. Like its Tuscan neighbor, Abruzzo is blessed with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by scorching summers and mild winters, that offers optimal conditions for grape cultivation. The vineyards, nestled amidst mountains and coastal plains, benefit from refreshing sea breezes that play a vital role in maintaining acidity levels and creating harmonious flavors in the resulting wines. While Abruzzo boasts several indigenous grape varieties crucial to its rosé production, the most renowned is Montepulciano. Established in the early 1970’s in Bolognano, in the heart of Abruzzo at the base of Gran Sasso – the highest mountain in the Apienne range - Marcello Zaccagnini’s eponymous winery has always been tied to the land. His slogan, “Wine, art of man”, comes from his work with the world renowned naturalist artist, Josef Beuys - an early proponent of sustainability - and his work on “Defense of Nature”. The tralcetto (stick) on every bottle is an actual grapevine cutting from the vineyards that is cut and tied by hand, representing the connection between the wine and the land. Zaccagnini’s mission is to invest in and promote the culture of the people, environment and wine-making processes that represent the values of Abruzzo, as well as making the winery a cultural hub for artists, musicians, scholars and wine enthusiasts. Marcello has accumulated a world class art and sculpture collection that is on public display in the winery, as well as in the vineyards, and supports many art festivals throughout the year. His sparkling rosé, made from 100% Montepulciano grapes, is a delectable example of this philosophy at work. Think Pink, Carrie Upson 2021 Zaccagnini Brut Rosé IGT Region/Country of Origin: Bolognano, Pescara, Abruzzo, Italy About the Vineyards: The 500 acres of the estate of Ciccio Zaccagnini is located in Bolognano, alongside the Rome-Pescara highway, in the province of Pescara. It is situated approximately 30 miles from the coast and about 8 miles from the Maiella Mountainwhich rises 9,000 ft. The vineyards are located in the cru section called "Colle Morto di Bolognano". About the Winemaking: The wine is made using the Charmat method, which is a method of sparkling wine production which involves secondary fermentation in a sealed tank. The grapes are gently pressed and the juice is fermented at a cool temperature (12 °C) in stainless steel tanks. This preserves the delicate fruit aromas. A second fermentation of the wine occurs with selected yeasts at a controlled temperature in pressure tanks. The foaming lasts 10/15 days. 100% Montepulciano. Tasting Notes: The wine is brilliant pink in color. It has a fine and persistent perlage. Aromas include notes of cherry, currant, blueberry and orange blossom. The wine is well-balanced, lingering, fragrant, with pleasant acidity and a smooth finish. Winemaker: Federica Lauterio Price per bottle / Price per case: $20.99/$226.70 Suggested Food Pairing: Enjoy by itself as an apéritif, or with fresh oysters, shellfish, crab cakes, or grilled sea bass. It also pairs with vegetable quiche, lemon chicken, and Thai curries. 2022 Riecine Palmina Rose Region/Country of Origin: Toscana IGT, Italy About the Vineyards: From an agronomic point of view , all the Riecine vineyards have been farmed in an ICEA certified organic regime since 2006. They are all planted with grasses, the weeding of the inter-rows is purely mechanical, trimming and leaf-stripping are completely eliminated. The aim is to face the increasingly severe and sudden climate change: they tend to favor a natural protection of the soil from excessive evaporation and shield the vines themselves from solar radiation and increasingly torrid summer temperatures. They also try to promote the establishment of native microfauna. About the Winemaking: Grapes are Harvested "green"; around 25 days before the rest of the vintage, by hand and sorted on a vibrating sorting table, destemmed, macerated in Nomblot concrete tanks (55hl), fermented with indigenous yeast at 15° C for 40 days with crushing downs & pumping overs. 11 months in old Tonneau. At least 3 months of bottle aging. 100% Sangiovese. Tasting Notes: Deep salmon pink in color, this rosé boasts a fragrant bouquet of white rose petals and subtle raspberry notes, enhanced by a touch of savory spice. The palate is refreshing and crisp, with a lingering, slightly dry finish. Elevate any occasion with this elegant and sophisticated rosé. A light and fruity palate, supported by good structure, acidity and grape tannins, all in perfect balance. Lovely citric acidity with fruity notes of strawberry and peach. Winemaker: Alessandro Campatelli Price per bottle / Price per case: $21.99/$ Suggested Food Pairing: Surprisingly good with Mediterranean cuisine and a little bit of spice such as tajine and pastilla.
Learn more
October 2023 Rose Club: Austrian and German Roses
October 2023 Why should beer drinkers own October? Though Austria and Germany are most famous wine-wise for their white bottlings - Gruner Veltliner and Riesling primarily - these Central European neighbors both produce a decent amount of red, and consequently, rose. We’ve sampled some of each in clubs past, but never, to my knowledge, together. Now seems like the ideal time to rectify that regrettable oversight, with these two alpine wines - crisp and mineral-driven and generous with the red fruit - that expertly slalom the autumnal downhill to holiday finish line. So please enjoy this Teutonic two-fer, an opposition Oktoberfest to rival anything you can swing via stein, and twice as pretty to boot. Glauben rosafarben! As a wine-producing country, Austria is divided into 4 wine growing regions: Weinland Österreich comprises the federal states of Niederösterreich (Lower Austria) and Burgenland with a total of 12 wine growing areas, Steirerland with its three Styrian wine regions, and Wien (Vienna), Austria's capital, which comprises 1,730 acres of vineyards. The other states of Austria are collectively referred to as Bergland Österreich (mountain country Austria), where small vineyards are thinly scattered. Of these, Burgenland possesses the oldest evidence of winemaking, going back some 3000 years to Celtic settlements on the shores of Lake Neusiedl. By 1240 Cistercian monks were cultivating grapes like Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris on the same sites. Today Burgenland would become one of the few regions in Austria dedicated primarily to red wine, and our selection this month is a blend of the three primary indigenous Austrian red grapes - Zweigelt, Blaufrankisch and Saint Laurent - that together constitute 80% of this 2nd generation producer’s output. Although still somewhat immature as a wine category, German rosé has almost doubled in production over the past decade – up to 12% of all national wine production. And Germany already produces more Pinot Noir annually than any country save France and the United States, so it is a great source of delicious and affordable pink juice from that most terroir sensitive (and often expensive!) of red varietals. This month we have a rose of Pinot Noir from the Nahe region occupying Germany’s southwestern corner. Named for the river that traverses it, Nahe is the country’s smallest such appellation, known for its relative diversity of soils and climatic conditions. Our selection comes from Kruger-Rumpf, a winery located in the northernmost part of the region, where the Nahe meets the Rhein. It is paradoxically the warmest part of the area, prized for its southern-facing exposures and classic Nahe soils compositions. Think Pink! Carrie Upson- General Manager Umathum Rosa Rosé Region/Country of Origin: Neusiedlersee, Burgenland, Austria About the Winemaker: The Umathums (the name is Frankish in origin first settled in the Lake Neusiedl region during the reign of Hapsburg monarch Maria-Theresa (1740-1780.) Wine-growing has always played an important role in the family, but until the early 1970’s, the family delivered its harvested grapes to a cooperative, like many of their neighbors. Until the 1980’s, the family produced a variety of agricultural goods. Today, wine-growing is the company’s central focus, though it does still remain active in other fields. Current winemaker Josef Umathum, born in 1960, has been in charge since 1985. About the Winemaking: A serious rose from Austria's three main varieties Blaufrankisch, Sankt Laurent and Zweigelt. Mature vines (up to 45 years old) are grown on gravel and schist soils in the villages of Frauenkirchen and Jois. Biodynamic farming, hand-harvesting and minimal intervention in the cellar are signatures of Umathum, a solar-powered winery that mixes traditional craft and modern philosophy. This saignee is aged in a stainless steel tank, accentuating the Rosa's wonderful raspberry and cherry fruit characteristics. Fermented and aged in large neutral oak casks, with a portion of stems added back into the wine as it ferments. Tasting Notes: Shiny and bright raspberry red, on the nose flavors of raspberries and cherries, which are reflected on the palate, pleasant, fine and full-bodied taste, round and mild with long aftertaste Winemaker: Josef "Pepi" Umathum Price: $21.99 bottle/ $226.80 case Suggested Food Pairing: Autumn vegetable stew, Cranberry bread dumplings with mushroom sauce, Light fish dishes Kruger-Rumpf Estate Pinot Noir Rosé Trocken Region/Country of Origin: Münster-Sarmsheim, Nahe, Germany About the Winery: The roots of the Kruger-Rumpf estate date back to the early 1700s. Like most vine-growers at the time, the family sold the majority of their grape production to larger houses or cooperatives. This practice continued through the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries until Stefan Rumpf kept the majority of their harvest to produce their own estate wines in 1984. This move allowed Kruger-Rumpf to focus on quality and express the distinctive terroirs in the family’s holding. Stefan’s sons Georg and Philipp, are continuing the trajectory with renewed energy and technical skill. The brothers Rumpf graduated from Germany’s prestigious Geisenheim University; Georg studied viticulture and oenology, while Philipp focused on wine economics. With Georg in the cellar and vineyards, this estate is producing world-class wine. This is an innovative estate that is on the move, always striving for new levels of quality and terroir expression. “I’m still trying to improve what I’m doing,” says Georg. “I’m not at the end of the road and still searching for the best possible expressions for each site that I can produce.” About the Winemaking: Georg is committed to organic viticulture and while they have been practicing organic for several years, they have started the transition for certification. Bees are kept nearby to facilitate pollination and aid in overall bio-diversity. Periodically sheep are allowed to roam the vines helping to control underbrush. All vineyards are hand harvested to ensure that only optimally ripe grapes are selected. Tasting Notes: Aged in stainless steel tanks, this light pink rosé is the ideal summer/Thanksgiving companion. Wild strawberries, raspberries and a hint of sour candy - this fruity rosé with scents from the orchard is pure joy. A fine minerality carries the aromas elegantly across the palate. A rosé to fall in love with! Winemaker: Georg Rumpf Price: $20.99 bottle/ Suggested Food Pairing: Triple cream cheeses Charcuterie Chicken with mushroom cream sauce
Learn more
June 2023 Rose of the Month Club
Summer is here and we have it on good authority that means the time is right for dancing in the street – in Chicago, down in New Orleans, in New York City, across the ocean blue. Wherever you’re headed there’ll be music, sweet music - music everywhere - and also, probably, rosé. While the international vino scene is full of finicky grapes that freak out when they get too far from home, great rosé can, and increasingly does, throw down strong roots wherever there’s viticulture. Pick any spot on Planet Wine, and the local take on pink will be among the most reliable guides you’ll find. So for June, we’ve put together a globe-trotting itinerary that will whisk you from South America to Europe to Asia for three brand new variations on this universal beat. Doesn’t matter what you wear, just as long as you…Think Pink! Adega de Mońçao Muralhas Rosé Region/Country of Origin: Vinho Verde, Portugal About the Winery: Adega Cooperativa e Regional de Monção was born, as a result of the common ambition of a group of winegrowers, and plays a very important role in the socio-economic dynamism of the region of Monção and Melgaço, promoting the direct and indirect employment of hundreds and hundreds of people. Adega de Monção is home for those who make grapes their livelihood, hobby or family legacy. About the Winemaking: Selection of the best grapes. Must drop extraction. Decantation (24 hours at 14 C). Controlled fermentation between 16-18 c, followed by racking/Soutirage. Primary filtration then storage and cold stabilization. Final membrane filtering before bottling Tasting Notes: Its pink color is an omen of a soft and slightly sweet taste. Bright fruity character with loads of wild berry aromas. The palate is fresh and well-balanced with bright, clean, smooth and ever so lightly sweet flavors. The aromas of wild fruits envelop us, without ever losing its balanced profile. It persists, in memory and in the mouth. Winemaker: Adega de Mońçao is a co-op and they don’t have one winemaker, they have many. Price: $13.99 btl/$151.10 case Suggested food pairing: When tasted young and very fresh, it pairs perfectly with a seafood meal or fish dishes. Selendi Ongor Family Vineyard Rosé 2020 Region/Country of Origin: Sarnıç Valley, Turkey About the Winery: Selendi Winery is a Turkish wine producer located in the valley of Sarnickoy, high above the ancient town of Akhisar in the west of the country. It was the first estate bottled producer of the country with the inaugural vintage released in 2000. About the Winemaking: The family-owned estate meticulously practices organic farming, meaning no pesticides or chemical intervention of any kind in their process. Each vine is carefully and naturally tended to from seed to grape production, nurtured and pruned by people who live and work on the land. After a hand-pick in the vineyard, grapes are fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks at the winery. Tasting Notes: Joyous and balanced, this rosé blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvedre, and Shiraz offers notes of citrus blossom, raspberries, watermelon jolly rancher, and bubble gum with bright acidity, soft tannins, and a long finish. Winemaker: Andrea Paoletti Price: $16.99 btl/$183.49 case Suggested Food Pairing: Enjoy with salmon, grilled vegetables or your favorite light cheeses. Los Vascos Domaines Barons de Rothschild Lafite Rosé 2021 Region/Country of Origin: Valley de Caneten, Colchagua Valley, Chile About the Winery: Los Vascos is located in Valle de Caneten (Colchagua), a closed valley in the central zone of Chile, approximately 25 miles from the sea. The valley provides a perfect microclimate for high quality viticulture, with Northern exposure to lands uncontaminated by airborne or water-borne pollutants. Daily on-shore winds provide temperature changes between 68-77°F, for optimum maturation of the grapes. With 1,581 acres planted on the over 10,000 acre estate, it is one of the largest vineyards in the central Colchagua valley, at the foot of Mount Cañeten. About the Winemaking: 60% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Mourvèdre. Grapes were harvested early in the morning, when temperatures were lower, in order to preserve the aromatic freshness of the grapes. At the winery, grapes were pressed directly and fermented at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks to preserve their aromatic potential. The wine is aged in tanks to retain the purity of the fruit. Tasting Notes: Bright and crystal-clear, this wine has an alluring pale pink color. The nose exhibits an intense strawberry scent that mixes with a background of raspberry and sweet melon pear. A fresh, vivacious palate that presents a delicate structure and balanced acidity and develops into a lovely and gentle aftertaste. Winemaker: Philippe Rolet Price: $10.99 btl/$118.69 case Suggested Food Pairing: Chicken and veggie kebabs, Sopa de Mariscos, Pastel de jaiba (Crab pie) Photo by Dennis Vinther on Unsplash
Learn more