by Sicily Cronin
Love is in the air this week, and we can think of a dozen reasons to drink pink for the occasion. Both still and sparkling options from both well-known and unexpected regions, here are our top rosés to enjoy with loved ones this Valentine’s Day.
Champagne Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé
A perfect celebratory wine all around is the Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé, and it just so happens that Billecart-Salmon is the result of a true love story: Nicolas François Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon were married in 1818 and founded the Billecart-Salmon Champagne House shortly thereafter. They have been making rosé since the 1840s and the house is still run by the 7th generation of the family today. The Brut Rosé is a pale pink color with refreshing floral and red berry notes on the nose, and delicate flavors of wild strawberries, raspberries, and a creamy smoothness on the palate.
$99.99
https://www.wine.com/product/billecart-salmon-brut-rose/23291
The Ordinary Fellow 2020 Sparkling Rose, Columbia Valley
Sometimes the best wines to celebrate a special occasion are anything but ordinary. Launched in 2021 by veteran winemaker Ben Parsons, The Ordinary Fellow, located in Palisade, CO, crafts exceptional wines from Colorado and Washington. Their sparkling rosé made in the traditional method opens with delicate aromas of fresh strawberry and dried rose petals backed by rich baker yeast flavors. With the color of a ballerina’s slippers in the glass, this sparkler is wonderfully refreshing, with bubbles that dance over the whole tongue.
$48.00
https://vinoshipper.com/shop/the_ordinary_fellow/sparkling_rose_107766
The Vice “Miami Vices” Rosè of Pinot Noir 2023, Napa Valley
Valentine’s Day is for love and other vices. Crafted in a Sancerre Rosé style, exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes, The Vice Napa Valley Wine’s rosé of Pinot Noir is delicious as it is post-worthy with its fun, decorative bottle. A seductive bouquet of red berries and spring flowers greets the nose and mouth-watering minerality and flavors of summer strawberries, and orange blossom meet the palate. The freshness keeps you going back for more, but this one is quick to disappear.
$36.00
https://www.thevicewine.com/product#/miamivicerose
Bonterra Organic Estates Rosé 2022, Mendocino
From America’s #1 Organic Winery, this juicy Grenache-based rosé is from Mendocino, CA. Bonterra’s mission to protect the earth through regenerative organic practices is only one reason to get behind this delicious rosé. The wine boasts fresh aromas and flavors of citrus, grapefruit, blood orange, and watermelon accented with maraschino cherries, quince paste, and notes of Earl Grey tea. Its crisp, mouthwatering finish begs another sip.
$14.00
https://www.bonterra.com/wines/bonterra-rose/
Kindred Wines Rosè of Pinot Noir 2023, Sonoma Coast
Born out of a friendship between vintner Kevin Jones and winemaker Mike Smith, and his wife, Leah Smith, an ultra-small-production wine brand Kindred Wines honors kindred spirits. Kindred spirits in love, long-lasting friendship, and those special connections you create along life’s journey. This rosé of 100% Pinot Noir is from the prestigious Tallgrass Vineyard located in Sonoma Coast, CA. Only a few cases were crafted, and for those that score a bottle or a few, it will not disappoint.
https://kindredwineco.com/shop
Flowers 2022 Sonoma Coast Rosè 1.5L
Who doesn’t want to receive flowers on Valentine’s Day? Crushed rose petals, fresh strawberry, and hints of sweet grapefruit on the nose play alongside a flavorful melody of strawberry and orange peel on the palate, with this Rose of Pinot Noir. Fresh and energetic, the entry seamlessly opens up to a juicy texture, framed with coastal acidity. The wine is sourced from a selection of family-owned vineyards on the Sonoma Coast, as well as their Sea View Ridge estate, each vineyard having been carefully chosen for its farming practices, coastal influence, and fruit standards.
$90.00
https://www.flowerswinery.com/shop/product/2022-rose-1.5L/
Whatever you’re drinking, happy sipping, and cheers to love!