Rising temperatures. Outside parties. Just the right mix of sophistication and fun. Summer is Rosé Season. Rosé is the chic, in-the-know choice for Summer 2015.
Most are likely dryer than you think, so they pair perfectly with grilled foods. But what is so right about Rosé this time of year is what it says about those who choose to enjoy it. Why? Rosés just don’t have to be expensive to be great.
With a bit of forethought and discernment, the right choice can set the tone for an amazing summertime experience. Savvy hosts and party goers can make the right impression – without overdoing it – by choosing a very affordable Rosé that looks just as high-end as it tastes. So without further ado, my recommendations for the 7 best luxury-branded rosés under $20.
Thanks to the Wine Library for all of your help shopping for these featured wines. All prices are rounded to the nearest dollar.
ESPORÃO VINHA DA DEFESA 2014 // PORTUGAL // $10
This Aragonez Syrah has super sleek graphics and very modern feel. Thin horizontal lines replace a paper label and provide a background for the gold foil-stamped logotype. This design is perfect for the urban modernist looking to stand out from the crowd.
LA MOULINIÈRE BORDEAUX ROSÉ 2014 // FRANCE // $11
A very classically-inspired label design clearly takes pride in its Bordeaux terroir. With a sophisticated engraving-style illustration of the winemakers’ maison and formal, serif typography, this Cabernet Franc and Merlot blend whispers with a quiet confidence.
JOSEP FORASTER ROSAT TREPAT 2014 // SPAIN // $13
A modern and minimal coat-of-arms and clean, sans-serif type makes this bottle appear attractive and upscale, yet very approachable (even if you’ve never heard of the Trepat grape). It’s unusual and intriguing. Grounded in history yet very contemporary in its look.
L’OLIVETO ROSÉ OF PINOT NOIR 2014 // CALIFORNIA // $13
Strong. Simple. Confident. This label design exudes quality, especially the use of subtly textured cream paper. A logo featuring a modern illustration of an olive tree and mountain combines with bold serifed type and earthy browns and green. This bottle would look great in any setting.
CHÂTEAU DE BEAUPRÉ 2013 // FRANCE // $14
Classic in every conceivable way, this bottle looks like it costs more than its actual price. A vintage woodcut illustration of the maison combines with an engraving-styled open typeface to evoke a very rich feel. Representing a combination of Grenache, Syrah and Consult, this design direction would likely appeal to wine purists and Francophiles.
DOMAINE CHANDON ROSÉ // CALIFORNIA // $17
This special edition sparkling Rosé basically jumped off of the shelf and into my cart screaming, “Let’s have fun!”
Wrapped in pink and white stripes, it just feels fresh – like the perfect summertime bottle to pop. This bottle design is perfect for fashionistas and fun-seekers.
CAVES D’ESCLANS WHISPERING ANGEL // FRANCE // $19
Totally stunning. A custom coat of arms molded into the glass, phantom-printed cherubs on a textured label, flowing script typography and a small, gold coat arms have already made this design a popular choice this season. It feels so highly considered and high-end.
The name also, is clearly distinctive within the category. Serve or gift this to impress guests or hosts.