by Patchen Markell » Fri May 20, 2016 6:44 am
2015 Stolpman Vineyards Ballard Canyon Rosé. 100% Grenache, 30% subject to carbonic maceration. 11% ABV, $22. This is a bright pink-red over a first coat of orange. Very fresh, bright fruit, not quite candied, some hints of sage, decent acidity but strikes me as having a slightly hollow core; this was popped straight out of the fridge, and its gets longer and a little better as it crosses 50 degrees. Dry, though the fruit-forwardness can give it the impression of slight sweetness. Tasty, well-made, food-friendly, but ultimately not complex enough to sustain a lot of interest or attention. I was surprised to see this on the shelf in an otherwise pretty indifferent neighborhood shop in Chicago, and was prepared to go back for a bunch more, but I don't think it's the rosé of the summer -- though I'd certainly drink it again.
cheers, Patchen
