An amazing rosé…
Name: Costes de Beyrac – Buzet
Vintage: 2014
Producer: Costes de Beyrac
Region/Country: Buzet, France
Grape Varietal(s): Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon
Consumed: At home, though purchased in Paris
Recommended By: The wine store clerk, who was informative and, in his own way, kind of cute.
Cost: 4.90 €
Bottle Presentation: Clean, simple, elegant label
Appearance: Light salmon colour
Nose: Peaches, pears, and apricots. A lovely bouquet.
Taste: A little alcohol, green apple, herbaceous, floral, tangy, and maybe some asparagus.
Finish: Tangy, long caudalies, but not overpowering.
Overall Impression: Great rosé. Wish I could have brought back a case! Delicate, refreshing, and with some staying power. When I had a bottle in France, it paired superbly well with cantaloupe and prosciutto, as well as an assortment of cheeses. When I had it at home, it tasted great on its own, but less so with BBQ pork, peaches, and potato salad. Saying that, with the BBQ, its herbaceous character came out, along with a little pepper. Interestingly, when it warmed up a little, closer to room temperature, it paired superbly with a cheese plate. With Gruyère, some sweeter, strawberry notes emerged, with aged white cheddar, it demonstrated more roundness and an easy-going character, and with Parmesan, citrus (grapefruit, lemon) and nutty notes flourished. I found it most fascinating that, unlike other rosés, which are usually better served chilled, this one revealed its complexity when a little warmer (kind of like some people I know!).
Rating (from 70 to 100): 93/100
Value: 5/5. A tremendous value! If I could go higher on the value scale, I would! So far, easily exceeds, for taste and value, most of the rosés I have ever had.
Additional Notes: This rosé reminded me of the importance of serving wine at the optimal temperature and pairing wine with a suitable meal.