What I’m Drinking: Skinner Rosé x DDWA Reviews

One of my favorite wineries in El Dorado County, in the Sierra Foothills, is a pure Rhone wine house. Skinner Vineyards wines are matched by the spectacular 360 degree views from the tasting room, perched on a hill at more than 2,000 feet high, surrounded by estate vineyards. On a recent visit my tasting started with the 2017 Rosé, El Dorado County ($24 at winery tasting room).

Talk about #roseallday. I could sip this juicy wine all summer long, no wait, all year long. The pale, coppery salmon pink wine bursts with ripe strawberry and watermelon fruit, with fresh white floral aromas. This is a dedicated rosé – meaning the grapes were grown specifically to make rosé, instead of juice being “bled off” grapes grown to make a red wine (a method called saignee).The blend of Grenache, Mourvedre and Cinsault is a classic southern Provençal style, crisp, dry and refreshing, with strawberry, watermelon and blood orange flavors and zesty acidity.

Review from Dan Dawson on Dan Dawson’s Wine Advisor:

47% Grenache, 23% Mourvedre, 16% Counoise, 14% Cinsault. A Rhone-style “purposeful” Rosé from El Dorado/Sierra Foothills. I like the subtle yet obvious smells and flavors of fresh peaches, strawberries, black pepper, orange fleshed melon and orange zest. Very pleasing. What truly sets this Rosé apart from the masses is its round texture, ideal acidity and delicious, apparent Rosé flavors. Bright and refreshing without being severe.

Skinner Winery, a Rhone-grape specialist located outside of Placerville, calls this purposeful Rosé, meaning the grapes were harvested for Rose – not saignée. First time I’ve heard this time. I like it – think I’ll use it! 

Read more on Dan Dawson’s Wine Advisor