The Hecht & Bannier 2009 Vin de Pays Rosé was produced from fruit sourced in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France. The vineyard sites in question have soils rich in limestone and clay. This wine is a blend of equal parts Syrah, Grenache and Cinsault. Grapes were picked mechanically. Fermentation took place over two weeks with select yeasts introduced. Aging was accomplished in a combination of concrete vats (30%) and large 600 liter barrels (70%). This wine has a suggested retail price of $12.
Red fruit aromas really pop out of the nose of this fresh and vibrant 2009 Rosé. That red fruit parade continues through the palate as cherry, strawberry, watermelon, raspberry and plum flavors all march by. These are buoyed by an undercurrent of citrus as well as tropical fruit flavors. These all come together to form a lovely and appealing mélange of flavors. White pepper, vanilla bean and light nutmeg flavors provide a trio of spices flavors that all ring out through the crisp and cool finish. Solid acidity keeps things in check and moderate alcohol makes it easy to enjoy a second or third glass.
No two ways about it, for $12 (less if you shop around) this Rosé is a steal. It offers all the elements I look for in Rosé. It’s light, and refreshing, but it has complexity. It drinks beautifully on its own, yet it will complement classic light summer fare (and more) very well. Whether you drink it now or consider it for your Thanksgiving Day table, this is a heck of a Rosé deal.