6 Things you didn't know about Rose'

First and foremost: there's no shame in drinking pink wine. Secondly, summer is upon us, and chilled wines help beat the heat! Thirdly, a rose' is a very versatile wine, and goes with all types of foods. Lastly, you should never pay more than $15 for a bottle, making it a very inexpensive treat for a summer evening! Other than these key points, what do you need to know about your new favorite pink-hued drink?

Here are 6 facts that you may not know about this summertime wine favorite...

1) There's no such thing as a good vintage rosé

Stick to the off-the-shelf fresh stuff! At the very very most, rosé should be imbibed within two to three years of purchasing. The newer the year, the fresher and better tasting the wine!

2) It's not from a specific region

You can make rosé anywhere in the world, from basically any grape. Some of the most common grape varieties used in dry/European-style rosé are Grenache, Sangiovese, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cinsault, and Pinot Noir. When in doubt, look for something from France, specifically Provence.

3) It goes with anything!

From a simple fish dish to a plate of barbecue, rosé's got that magic taste that pairs with just about everything. Its versatility makes it a great bottle to bring to a dinner party!

4) You should be experimenting!

Rosé cocktails are even more delicious than just a plain old glass. Try this easy, delicious take on a daiquiri:

2 oz dry rose' / 1 oz rum / 0.5 oz fresh lime juice / 0.5 oz simple syrup - Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge.

5) There are many shades of pink

On the rosé spectrum of color, darker rosés have “macerated” longer, meaning the wine has sat in the grape skin longer. Darker rose' wines will also take on more of the deeper, tannic characteristics you find in red wine.

6) The French consume more rosé than white wine

And WHY WOULDN'T THEY? It's DELICIOUS.

Here are some affordable favorites that can be found in your local store!