2013 Chrismont La Zona Mezzanotte Rosato

An interesting blend of Sangiovese and Barbera made into a rose style similar to those in Italy's Garda Lombardy DOC region. Previous vintages saw Chrismont add the rare Marzemino, a red variety native to Trentino Alto-Adige. Chrismont and its Alpine Valley neighbour Michelini Wines appear to be the only Australian producers of this variety outside of Italy.

Given the wine's name Mezzanotte, I'm guessing the grapes for his rose were picked in the wee small hours to maximise freshness. It is indeed that but it would have been interesting to see what the Marzemino could have brought to the mix.

Pale pink to an orange salmon coloured wine with fresh aromas of strawberry, cherry and grass. Dry and crisp acidity upon entry. Poached strawberry dominates the palate with cranberry and savoury cherry nuances towards the back end. Light-bodied, slightly candy sweet. But it's one-dimensionally strawberry. A quaffer to be sure. 


Source: Retail Purchase. ABV: 12.0%. Closure: Screwcap. Price: $18.50. 
Rating: 87 Points. Website: http://www.chrismont.com.au/index.html

2011 First Drop Wines Lush Touriga Rose

I'm always on the look out for roses produced from the non-mainstream varieties and the Lush from the innovative guys at First Drop Wines, fits the bill. The Portuguese variety Touriga National is well suited to the diversity of the McLaren Vale region from which this dry rose is made.

Neon pink colour here. Loads of beautiful red fruits aromas, strawberry, cranberry and raspberry and herbal florals. Zesty strawberry and spicy watermelon palate with some creamy honey nuances at the back end really appealed. The mouthfeel from this lovely textured, beautifully-balanced rose, finishes dry. An exciting, delicious and refreshing wine. 

Source: Retail Purchase. ABV: 12.0%. Closure: Screwcap.          

Price: $20.00. Rating: 90 Points.