Two years ago, the NLC offered a wide selection of the world’s worst rosé wines.  The selection has improved considerably, and just in time for summer drinking.

The Chateau Bellevue La Fôret ($18.00)
Find it in the France Section

The Chateau Bellevue La Fôret is from the Fronton appellation in South West France and is composed of 65% Négrette, a grape typical of the wines there and little seen elsewhere.  The balance of this wine is made up of Gamay with smatterings of the Cabernets and Syrah.  This drink is all about fruit.  There is a distinct strawberries and cream character with some lemony notes. There is a hint of sweetness, like that of a ripe bell pepper. Imagining this would pair well with vegetable-based dishes more so than fish or meat.   Good stuff, speaking honestly of the place it is made.

The LorgerilL’Orangeraie ($17.86)
Find it in the France Section

The LorgerilL’Orangeraie has subtle floral aromas, faint aromas of citrus peel. On the palate it’s saline and mineral, and with a touch of grapefruit pith bitterness. This is Sud de France stuff, a quenching dry drink for salty snacks on a very hot day.  It wants a touch more oomph, it’s not Tavel, but suited to its role in the sun.