Rosé All Day

The Best Four Rosés for Summer

Peak rosé season is here, and we can’t think of a better way to toast to summer. Since not all rosés are created equal, it’s the job of our team to source the best rosé from around the globe. From pale Provençal pinks to local Niagara blends, our specially curated rosé wine list has something for every palate and budget. Need a little extra guidance? We tapped Bar Manager Josh Kelly, a certified sommelier and winemaker, for his favourite ways to drink pink.

Best Sparkling Rosé

In the mood for a little bubbly? Our wine list features three sparkling rosés, but Josh looks to the Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine’ Rosé ($80) as the leader of the pack. Made in St. Catharines, Ontario, this non-vintage sparkling is made in a Crémant style, using the same method and techniques as Champagne – but without the Champagne price tag!

“You’ll experience a lot of those traditional Champagne notes,” says Josh. “It’s amazing value for the quality you’re getting”

Henry of Pelham employs a prolonged lees aging process, explains Josh, which develops and enhances more toasty, brioche-like, and sweet yeasty characteristics.

Best Ontario Rosé

If you’re looking to support a local wine producer, look no further than the 2016 Tawse Rosé ($50). Made in Niagara, this medium-bodied rosé offers plenty of complexity, aromatics, and zippy acidity.

“This is the rosé you think of when you want something bright and colourful,” says Josh. “It has this beautiful dark pink hue to it. It’s just stunning.”

Featuring notes of cherry blossoms and ripe strawberries, with offset hints of watermelon, this rosé is perfect for pairing with green salads, fresh seafood, or creamy cheeses.

Best French Rosé

The South of France is pretty much synonymous with rosé – and for good reason. If you’re new to rosé, or simply appreciate the French classics, Josh suggests opting for a bottle of the 2016 Tavel, Domaine Lafond Roc Épine ($70).

“Tavel offers a really authentic experience,” says Josh. “It’s an AOC [Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée] in France, and they only produce rosé – which is super cool.”

Rich and fruity, the Tavel is bursting with notes of currants and strawberries, featuring good acidity and freshness. Paired with our bistro-style sidewalk patio, this elegant French rosé is sure to transport you to to the streets of Paris.

Best Value Rosé

Penedès, Spain is mostly known for its cava production, so you wouldn’t necessarily look to this region for its rosé, but Josh points to the 2017 Raimat Rosado ($54) as a phenomenal budget-friendly option.

“It’s not as highly sought-after or expensive since the region is not as well-known for it,” he says. “But this rosado is made by a smaller producer that puts a lot of time and care into it. It’s an amazing price for the quality.”

Best Rosé Food Pairing

While fresh seafood, bright salads, and high acidity cheeses are always great pairing options, Josh suggests pairing your rosé with an order of Chef Bill’s classic moules frites, prepared in a beautiful white wine cream sauce.

“Most rosés have a really good amount of acidity to them, and acidity makes a wine really great for pairing with something heavier like cream,” explains Josh. “The acidity cuts through that cream and creates contrast. The idea is to get a fresh taste of the same food and wine all over again!”

Ready to get your rosé on? Peruse our menu and book your reservations today!