Rob's "Wine of the Week" Archives
So here is my wine review for the week of May 5th...
CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE NELLIE’S GARDEN ROSE
Description: When I first fell in love with wine, 15 years ago, Chateau Ste Michelle was the nicest bottle of wine I could afford. Back then, at $8 per bottle, it was an amazing value for a great wine out of Washington state. Years later, I still find Ste Michelle to be an exceptional winery and a great value. When I found that they were producing a Rose, my new wine obsession, I was thrilled. When I found out it was called “Nellie’s Garden,” I was twice as thrilled, since I have a fantastic German Shepherd named “Nellie.” Coincidence? I doubt it.
How and when I drank it: Sunday afternoon, May 05, 2008 at my house
How to get it: Almost all wine specialty stores and BevMos carry it, some grocery stores sell it, and it can be purchased on the winery’s website as well.
How Much: about $15.
My Thoughts: Obviously, based on the name, this is a Rose that is designed to be dry. I would recommend that those of you who prefer completely sweet light reds to avoid this bottle and go to the Peju Provence, which I reviewed earlier in this space. If, however, you seek a more balanced Rose, this Ste Michelle is a great choice. Despite the name, this is not an exceptionally dry rose that makes you pop your tongue off of the roof of your mouth. The aromas and initial flavors are filled with fresh fruit, strawberry, cherry, flowers, etc are prominent at the start and the dry kick gets you on the back end. Very pleasant and balanced and most importantly, refreshing. I would suggest serving it not at room temperature, nor fully refrigerated. 50 degrees is probably perfect.
Overall Score: At $15 this is a great, light, fruity red wine for summer barbeques and warm weather wine drinking. It is NOT a sweet wine, but rather a light red wine, choose accordingly. 4 vines
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