I stumbled upon Paysan Rosé in late spring during a sudden spike in what had been a long run of damp, cool temperatures. Like many of you, I felt an irresistible urge to sit outside after work and celebrate having survived another Minnesota winter. That, of course, called for a glass of wine. I headed to our rosé section and found myself facing over 100 options. My eye landed on Paysan from California’s Central Coast. Perhaps it was the color—more fuchsia than the pale blush tones typical of southern France, yet still translucent enough not to be mistaken for a red. Either way, it came home with me. Once chilled, I poured a glass and stepped into the sunshine. Paysan crafts village-inspired wines from the Central Coast, and this rosé pays homage to the Rhône Valley with its blend of 71% Mourvèdre, 15% Cinsault, and 14% Grenache. Though the grape varieties are French, the wine is unmistakably Central Coast, thanks to the influence of the region’s signature calcareous alluvium and calcium-rich shale soils. Harvested early enough to retain bright acidity and pressed after just 3–6 hours of skin contact, this rosé offers vibrant notes of dark berries, savory herbal hints, and a beautiful mouthfeel. It pairs wonderfully with grilled salmon, chicken, or lamb (my personal favorite). What I love most is its seasonal versatility. It was perfect in spring, it’s just right for summer, and I fully expect it to shine come fall. Stock up now and enjoy it in the months ahead. -Wine Consultant, Noelle Starr