Tablas Creek Tablas Estate Rose 2006

Blend: 60% Mourvèdre, 28% Grenache, 12% Counoise

The Tablas Creek Vineyard Rosé 2006 is a blend of three estate-grown varietals, propagated from budwood cuttings from the Château de Beaucastel estate. The blend is traditional of the southern Rhône, though the blend of grapes is predominantly Mourvèdre, and therefore more like the solid, dry rosés of Bandol than the lighter Grenache-based Tavel.

The 2006 Rosé is rich, ripe, and full of spice and fruit. It has aromatics of sage and juniper, as well as white plum and watermelon, flavors of ripe strawberries, fresh acidity and a lingering finish. Pair it with Mediterranean cuisine, Spanish tapas, preparations with garlic and olive oil...or just enjoy it outside on a sunny day.

"Medium pink. Fresh raspberry and cherry scents are complemented by pungent herbs and dried flowers, with suave orange peel and anise arriving with air; really smells like a Bandol. Fleshy red fruit flavors are firmed by gentle mineral qualities, which add verve to the ripe, round finish. Comes in at 14.8% alcohol but doesn't seem warm at all. This would be fantastic with herbed fish or poultry, or high-fat, stinky cheeses." 90 Points
International Wine Cellar
November 15, 2007