This is my ‘go-to’ Rose for this summer!
Walking through our local wine store (all of them run by the State of Pennsylvania in our home state), one can see many Rose choices, some may be less expensive than the $10.99 cost of this wine, but one sip of this one and my palate was transported back to Southern France – so I declare this wine is a Screaming Good Deal!
Jean-Luc Colombo and his wife Anne Colombo opened their wine laboratory back in the 1980s, and since 2010 they are joined by their daughter Laure Colombo. Together the Colombo clan have become legendary in the Rhone as they have put their names on countless highly-regarded wines.
Back to the wine… served cold enough that the glass of wine shows condensation as it is held up to the sun (since you are likely sitting on your back patio, enjoying the evening), the “Cape Bleue” Rose looks beautifully light blush in color with aromas of peach and red berries. Flavors are luscious and round with notes of strawberries, raspberries and a hint of watermelon, all seamless and nicely balanced. As is the case with most Jean-Luc Colombo wines, even at this price point, the wine is carefully made – the blend is 40% Syrah; 40% Mourvèdre; 20% Counoise (a common blend for Southern France Rose), and these grapes are cold-fermented in stainless steel vats, which contribute to the wonderful freshness in every sip.
I paired this wine with charcuterie and a salmon salad – it worked well – especially because we were outside – I highly recommend this Rose for outdoor summer meals! (In Pennsylvania: Jean Luc Colombo Cape Bleue Rose Provence 2012, Abv: 12.5%, $10.99, PLCB Code: 31612)
Jack Brice Wine 