2023 Rosé Review
Rosé for spring…
Groundbreaking, I know.
But, it’s Easter week, and the brand new 2023 rosés from my favorite Long Island winery, Wölffer Estate, are out, so we have to talk about them. Bonus: they’re delicious.
Two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of tasting Wölffer’s 2023 Summer in a Bottle Long Island Rosé and their 2023 Wölffer Estate Rosé at the vineyard. They’re both excellent and I was really surprised. I’m not saying that Wölffer’s rosés aren’t good. They always are. But, most summers, one of their rosés is a standout. It’s the one you’re going to order every time you visit the Wölffer Wine Stand, because it’s just a bit better than the others. This summer, I think that might be a tough call to make.
The 2023 Summer in a Bottle is one of Wölffer’s best yet, which is fitting because it’s the wine’s 10th anniversary. (Check out the festive new bottle design to celebrate the occasion.) This wine has a beautiful blush color, almost light pink or rose gold. It has great aromas of fresh strawberries, a touch of powdery rose, and just a hint of sweetness. The wine itself, isn’t sweet or sugary at all, and is smoother than in years past. It’s minerally, fresh, and bright, with a really lovely tart finish. This is a beautifully balanced, soft rosé that would be fabulous at a picnic, by the pool, or at the beach for sunset. It’s terrific for sipping, or with appetizers, and would be perfect with a summer salad, some fresh salmon, salsa, ceviche, or bruschetta. It’s $27.00 on Wölffer.com.
The 2023 Wölffer Estate Rosé is also terrific. It has more of a copper or onion skin color and is more aromatic, with hints of apples and peaches, along with strawberries and very light florals. The Estate has nice minerals and a but of salt with a really round finish. It would be the perfect partner for fresh fish, shellfish, appetizers, or cheeses. The Estate is typically the better of the two wines, but this year I’m not so sure. It is a touch more elegant, but I think the Summer in a Bottle wins on fruit and brightness, so I’m calling 2023 a draw. I plan on serving Summer in a Bottle Rosé from day to evening, then switching to the Estate Rosé once the sun goes down. At $19 a bottle on Wölffer.com, it’s a great value.
Either of these beauties would be gorgeous with Easter brunch, ham, or just hanging with the fam. Wölffer’s 2023 Summer in a Bottle Côtes de Provence isn’t out yet. I’ll be sure to review it as soon as it’s available.
Chin!
