A ROSÉ BY ANY OTHER NAME
Fans of crisp, savory rosé should familiarize themselves with Italy’s bounty of beautiful pink-hued offerings. While in the past it was not common throughout much of the country, producers from north to south have ramped up production of stellar vini rosati from native and international grapes.
There are a number of styles and designations, but the best are bright, vibrant and dry. Here’s your cheat sheet to the best rosatos out there. —K.O.
90 Guerrieri Rizzardi 2018 Classico (Bardolino Chiaretto). Sleek and vibrant, this has alluring aromas of white and yellow spring flower, wild berry and yellow stone fruit. The succulent palate has more structure than most Chiarettos, offering sour cherry, juicy strawberry, honeydew melon and a hint of baking spice before a crisp, dry finish. Elixir Wine Group. Editors’ Choice. —K.O.
abv: 13.5% Price: $16
91 Cavalchina 2018 Bardolino Chiaretto. Inviting floral and wild berry aromas mingle with whiffs of botanical herb. On the savory, refreshing palate, tangy acidity accompanies pomegranate, juicy pink grapefruit and creamy white peach. It closes on a saline note. de Grazia Imports LLC. —K.O.
abv: 12.5% Price: $17
A blend of organically farmed Corvina (80%) and Rondinella (20%), this elegant rosato opens with enticing scents of spring field flower, aromatic herb, ripe peach and a whiff of baking spice. Smooth, bright and juicy, the savory, easy-drinking palate offers wild red berry, —K.O.
