Chateau D'Aqueria, Tavel

[Innkeeper]

1999 Chateau D'Aqueria, Tavel Rose'. For the same price ($11) as a quality American Grenache Rose' such as McDowell Valley Vineyard, you get more with this Tavel. The color is like no other rose' seen lately. A deep, deep rose color, not salmon. Looks like something Gallo or one of those used to put out called "Red Rose'" or something like that. Color is where the similarity ends.

This is a bone dry blend of grenache, syrah, cinsault, and clairette. It has the same structure as a C-D-R, meaning it can handle a variety of dishes beyond what you would have with a White Zin. It meets the nose and tongue tip with floral fresh melony fruit. Holds its own across the palate, and finishes nicely.

Highly recommended for a summertime quaffer, picnic wine, and with light BBQ fare. We matched it with a gillpanned ham steak last night, and it was, you guessed it, wonderful.