Don't listen to them! It is a pervasive myth that there is a Rosé season. It perpetuates a wrongful stereotype about the nature of Rosé. And many of these wine writers actually know better. They know the truth but choose to ignore it. Stop deluding the public.
What is the truth? Rosé is a year round wine, appropriate for all four seasons. Sure, a chilled Rosé can taste wonderful on a hot, summer day, but it can equally satisfy when you are at home during a snow storm. It is extremely food friendly, and there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn't enjoy it with the same roast chicken dish you serve in the summer or winter. Wine writers should promote Rosé year round rather than jump on the bandwagon and only proclaim that summer is the season for Rosé. If they recommended Rosé year round, then Rosé consumption would grow even more.
Currently, France and the U.S. consume about 50% of the world's production of Rosé, with the U.S. drinking about 13%. For the last ten years, Rosé imports from Provence to the U.S. have grown at double-digit rates. As an example, in 2013, the growth rate was an astounding 40%, which certainly pleases a Rosé lover like myself. Though those figures are only for Provence Rosé, the statistics in 2013 for all imported Rosé, priced at $12 or higher, are equally as impressive, growing 39% by volume and 48% in value. Just imagine how these figures might even be higher if Rosé was promoted year round.
The 2013 Laurent Miquel Cinsault/Syrah is a blend of 80% Cinsault and 20% Syrah. It is a Vin de Pays d'Oc from the region of Languedoc-Roussillon, located in southern France. Laurent Miquel, an 8th generation winemaker, has crafted a delicious value Rosé, which will remind you of Provence Rosé, and he deserves kudos for this creation. The wine has an appealing, light pink color and as soon as I removed the screwcap, a delightful aroma of red fruits wafted through the air. As I sipped the wine, I was pleased with its crisp, dry taste and flavors of strawberry, raspberry and underlying mineral notes. It was easy drinking, thirst quenching, and very addictive. I actually had two bottles and had to open both of them the same day because it was just that good.
Stop believing the hype. There is no Rosé season because it is a wine fitting year round. And if you want a great value recommendation, seek out the 2013 Laurent Miquel Cinsault/Syrah ($10)