The Data

Country   USA

Appellation   Applegate Valley

Varietal   Rose Blend

Retail Price   $25

ABV   11.4%

Score   4.5 Stars/94 points

In the Glass

Slightly hazy, light salmon color.

The aromatics are pleasingly intense offering scents of raspberry and wild strawberry with supporting notes of cranberry and slate.

The palate echoes the nose delivering a red fruit-driven core with flavors of red cherry, orange peel, and tropical fruits. The finish lingers with crisp citrus accents.

Medium-bodied and perfectly balanced with a vibrant texture.

Cool Factor

Our second taste of a Troon Vineyard Rosé exceeded the first and is of course very cool.

Value Grade

Scarcity (only 300 cases made), superb quality, and a modest, premium price tag of $25 make this wine a value for wine lovers seeking unique wines with personality.

Analysis

Made with a unique blend of 60% Tinta Roriz, 40% Primitivo — last year's Rosé included 5% Grenache. Like all of Troon's wines the vines are farmed to provide optimal fruit for the intended wine. The grapes were very delicately, whole-cluster pressed then barrel fermented in mature, French Oak Burgundy barrels. Unlike many Rosé wines you will encounter this one has gone through malolactic (softening the sharp acid profile) and then aged on the lees for five months. Enjoy this odd yet delicious blend as Tinta Roriz and Primitivo will be dropped after this vintage in favor of Cinsault, Counoise, Grenache, and maybe Mourvèdre in Troon's Rosé blends.

How to Enjoy

Serve chilled with nothing but a glass or pair with ceviche or spicy chicken wings.