Rosé wines can often be misunderstood. Those with lighter pink hues are sometimes deemed better quality than those with a darker pink hue. But I’m here to tell you that you should never judge a rosé (or Rosato as they say in Italy) by its color. Simply think of the color as an accessory to the taste; something to visually enjoy before you actually enjoy it.
For example, Merkin Vineyard’s 2020 Shinola Rosado is more pale peach in color than the typical rouge you’ll see in rosés. Had I not known better, this wouldn’t be a bottle I would pick off the shelf because it was too peach and not enough pink. Thankfully, I knew better. And this wine did not disappoint.
Merkin used 100% Sangiovese for this particular rosé which provided sweet, almost strawberry notes on the nose. This light, dry rosé, with slight tannins, makes for easy drinking by the pool on a warm summer day (which we are not short of here in Arizona).
For pairings, Sangiovese is an Italian grape so think of their local flavors such as caprese salad and other soft cheeses, prosciutto, and seafood dishes like salmon risotto or pasta with shrimp.
Merkin has been producing this wine for years and has successfully refined the process to create a consistently light, dry rosado. Enjoy a bottle for $32 or try a glass at Merkin’s Old Town Scottsdale location for $9.
For more information visit www.merkinoldtownscottsdale.com