Sunday, August 3, 2008

Chateau Julien Sangiovese Rosato Rosé 2007


Price: $18.00
SoG Score: 95
User Score: --
Region: Carmel Valley, California

I honestly can't believe it's already August and summer is almost half over! It's even more reason to relish in the hot lazy summer days and that's what's been tempting me to open my last bottle of my most favorite wine from one of our favorite wineries, Chateau Julien's rosé.

First off, if you haven't vacationed in Carmel Valley/Monterey in the Central Coast of California, you really must fit this into your schedule- it's the perfect idyllic weekend getaway especially this time of year. Two quick suggestions for where to stay- Old Monterey Inn (French country chic) in Monterey and Tradewinds Inn (pure Zen relaxation) in Carmel Valley. And you must stop by Chateau Julien in Carmel Valley- it's one of the most charming vineyards you'll come across in the states. Friendly husband and wife owners who were so captivated by a winery in the South of France that they bought a vineyard and created a replica of the chateau.

Now to their rosé- I think rosés aren't given enough credit in the states. Sure there are some rosés that taste like cardboard and should definitely be passed over, but a good rosé makes for one of the most refreshing drinks out there. Chateau Julien's is by far my favorite. Made from the Sangiovese grape, it's bursting with the essence of juicy strawberries and is surprisingly sweet for a coastal wine but still crisp.

the ideal meal: shrimp scampi for dinner and big juicy strawberries for dessert