2022 Emile Balland Côteaux-du-Giennois Rosé 'Les Beaux Jours'

From: Côteaux-du-Giennois, Loire Valley, France Varietals: 50% Pinot Noir, 50% Gamay Tasting Notes: Redcurrant, strawberry, and raspberry lead on the nose, which comes into focus as fragrances of crushed chalk, wildflowers, zesty tangerine, and light hints of spice make themselves known. These red fruits remain present on the palate, which reveals notes of wet river stones, tangerine pith, and tart peach. This rosé is incredibly fresh and lithe on the finish: perfect for the beautiful days (“beaux jours”) to come in spring and summer. Pairing: This wine makes us crave a meal that combines fresh flavors and with a touch of richness. For example, the salt and pepper tofu from Green Tree with a side of green beans. Other options include prosciutto-wrapped melon, deep fried wontons, shrimp fried rice, grilled fish or chicken, or melted goat cheese on crostinis with bacon and spinach. Thinking so much about this wine has also made us crave this recipe for Carrot Tart With Ricotta