I like my pink wine pale and austere. That’s why the 2011 Hedges Family Estate House of Independent Producers Rosé of Cabernet Franc (phew!) is going to the top of my list for best rosé wine in Washington. At yesterday’s ceremony for the Washington Wine Restaurant Awards, the savvy Washington Wine Commission made sure there was plenty of wine on hand to taste before and after the ceremony. Amidst a plethora of powerhouse red wines, the Hedges rosé was like a beacon in a tannic storm, providing crisp, cleansing refreshment.
There are only 180 cases of this gem available. And while the suggested retail price is not inexpensive ($22), I suggest you split a bottle with a friend. You both just need to chip in ten bucks, and a quick raid of your change jar should make up the balance.
A few other wines captured my attention in the category of Lively and Refreshing: the not-yet-released 2011 Efeste “Feral” Sauvignon Blanc and Evergreen Riesling. And the 2010 Maison Bleue Viognier, giving the grape its due in Washington.
Full disclosure: I attended this ceremony as an invited member of the media.
