This blush wine from the Minervois area in the Languedoc region of France is a blend of Syrah, Grenache Gris and Mourvèdre grapes. Château Millegrand is located outside the village of Trèbes. Since 2003 it has been owned by Jean-Michel Bonfils and his sons who have undertaken significant renovations there. Interestingly enough, less than a third of Millegrand’s vineyards are in the Minervois AC.
Winemaker: Château Millegrand
Wine: Minervois Rosé Table Wine
Varietal: Blend
Vintage: 2012
Appellation: Minervois AC, France
Price: $8.99 at Whole Foods
Notes: I would describe the color of this wine as a pale coral. On the nose I got lightly sweet floral scents including chrysanthemum. On the tongue, this dry French rosé was light-bodied with decent acidity. Flavors were very gentle on the palate. They included tart cherry, a green herbaceousness, floral notes, some minerality, and a touch of quinine on the finish. Alcohol is at 13%. It’s dry, it’s moderately complex, and it’s subtle. No doubt this would, indeed, go nicely with those summer salads everyone says these blush wines should be paired with or with a seafood dish (pasta with shrimp, perhaps). I have to say that I … I liked it! Finally, a rosé I can say that about unequivocally. Well, I’m just tickled pink!! [I’m sorry. I couldn’t help myself.]
Important: I am not a professional sommelier or wine connoisseur. See “About” for the full disclaimer.