Rosé is all the rage at this time of year. Bottle shops abound with the stuff and wine lists are growing ever longer and more expensive – Bert’s now lists a Côtes de Provence for $590 a bottle, but then Bert’s isn’t cheap. I haven’t tried it, but I have had some good ones including the Rimauresque which they list (at $118 but you should be able to find for around $40 in retail, as I said, Bert’s isn’t cheap) and while people do drink it like it’s going out of fashion a good rosé is a very good wine. Here are some to ponder.

Domaine Tempier, Bandol 2019

Bandol is considered the Monarch of all rosé. I got a half bottle from Le Pont during their sale. You can get a half of the 2021 here but most places have sold out.

It’s an exemplary blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault and if this was all I was allowed to drink for the rest of my days I’d be happy (but poor). Nick’s says it has… “a fragrant bouquet of peaches, cherries and subtle blood orange… some wet stone and spicy citrus notes” and I’d have to agree.

Domaine de Bagnol, Cassis 2020

Half an hour up the road to Marseilles you will find the town of Cassis, famous for its Crème de Cassis, essentially alcoholic Ribena that transforms the harshest, cheapest white wine into a pleasant aperitif. But I’d much rather be drinking  this. It’s cheaper than the Bandol – $55 from Le Pont, but in some ways more interesting. Made from the same grape varieties, but in a different order – Grenache, Mourvèdre and Cinsault – it has a hint of spice.

Spinifex Luxe Rosé, Barossa 2021

Halliday Wine awards crowned this the Australian rosé of the year, and I can see why. It’s an Australian attempt at a Bandol, predominately Mourvèdre and Cinsault but with no Grenache. I got a few bottles from Cloud Wine and was subject to a happy accident. Somehow, a bottle of 2017 was popped into the case. The extra age had added a silkiness we rarely see. Good value at $32.

Paulett’s Clare Valley Rosé 2022

With multiple trophies to its name some would argue that this is the Australian rosé of the year. I’m not one of them. It has a floral sweetness that I couldn’t get past. A large ice cube helped, but I can’t say I’m looking forward to the other two bottles in the wine fridge. Definitely not a Bandol style, more like something from Anjou. But then again, it’s only $22 and this blog is supposedly about cheaper wine.

Avalon Rosé 2022

It’s hard to be impartial about this one as I have been involved in its creation. It’s also hard to tell you where to get it – the website is almost ready. It’s a Grenache Mourvèdre blend and if you like a dry, serious rosé you will like this. I’ll leave you with the tasting notes:

Beautiful hues of copper and rose gold, brilliant clarity. Aromas of ruby grapefruit, some pith. Orange marmalade, with apricot, and also hints of bright raspberries and strawberries. The palate receives a great texture with firm acid-driven, chalky tannins. It’s dry and serious. Refreshing quinine, grapefruit and a hint of red currant.

Happy Christmas everyone.