Tavel was the first rosé Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, or dedicated zone of production, and is located in the southern Rhone. As part of the AOC “rules”, they are allowed to grow nine grape varietals (fifteen if you count the color variations); six of those grapes are in this wine. The deep hue and tannic structure of the wine comes from Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Mourvèdre; Clairette, Bourboulenc, and Cinsault bring the aromas and fresh finish to the blend. Let me say this: Château d’Aqueria’s Tavel is not the rosé you’re expecting. It may not be the wine you would bring on a Sunday afternoon picnic or the one to bring to the family get-together. This is after-dark, Saturday night rosé: inviting and alluring, gutsy and intriguing, expressive and thought-provoking. Its fierce, shiny ruby color draws you in when you first see the bottle. Then you pour the wine and are further enticed by the spicy aroma of complex and elegant red fruits. Finally, the wine hits your mouth and it’s as stunning as anticipated: sophisticated, textured, crisp, and oh-so tasty. And the finish… intense. Anything red wine can do, Tavel can do just as well. (120055)