By Rosé all day. Cliché? Maybe. Summertime motto? Most definitely. Originally the wine of choice for aristocrats and royalty, blushing Rosé pairs perfectly with summer parties, summer weddings, and even wedding gowns( it’s color and namesake flower inspired our newest “Rosabelle” gown!) So this year, in the effort to narrow down some of my favorite Rosés out there, I’ve hosted a Rosé taste test, and the results are in (and so is our “Rosabelle” look book below!) You can also shop my limited edition, “American Rosé” cotton print midi dress, here!
It’s no secret I’m a wine fanatic. But I’m also no wine snob. Being from California, there’s never a shortage of great vineyards to discover, or new wine bottles on the shelves of the local Trader Joe’s to try- all at varying price points. While the birthplace of Rosé is Provence, and it’s actually pretty difficult to find a truly bad bottle from the region, I wanted to see if California Rosés could compete with their international competition. Enter blind taste test.
Experiencing wine is subjective. There’s no right or wrong way to interpret flavors and notes. That’s actually on one of the things I love most about wine. So, if you’re looking for a fun and unique twist on a girl’s night, or even an activity for a bridal shower, host a Rosé (or wine!) taste test. You don’t have to be a wine expert to appreciate a tasting, and it’s fun to compare opinions. For ours, we picked a handful of bottles, ranging from $5 to almost $50, from France and California. Each Rosé was poured, marked with a ribbon, and we made our notes on cards for each glass. My personal selections, ranked from best to least, are below:
Blue Ribbon: Agua Dulce Sweetwater Rose, Los Angeles, CA ($40)
My pick for first place is so good, it may already be completely sold out by the time this feature goes live. Located about 25 minutes from the Lauren Elaine Flagship Bridal Salon, Agua Dulce Winery is not only the best winery in LA County (by far!), but it’s one of my absolute favorites in all of Southern/Central Coast California (especially if you love bold wines) – and their Sweetwater Rosé can’t be beat! With notes of elderflower, honeysuckle, and strawberry, it’s light, refreshing, and has significantly more flavor and perfume than many Rosés, without being overly sweet. And being an American Rosé, it’s a perfect pairing for any 4th of July celebration;)
Runner Up: Carayon La Rose, Provence, France ($5)
I’m no wine snob. Which is why I’m beyond happy to have selected this $5 gem (yes, it’s only $5!) from the ruling Rosé region of France as my second favorite. Citrus forward with notes of lemon, it’s a little more earthy but equally delicious and crisp. Snag a bottle at your local Trader Joe’s!
Bronze Medalist: Josh Cellars, Paso Robles, CA ($10)
Notes of green apple and cherry, this smooth and mild Rosé pairs well with almost anything. Neutral but memorable, it’s not as floral or fragrant as the my 1st and 2nd picks, but it’s probably a better choice if you prefer more subtle varietals.
Honorable Mention (and Most Beautiful): St. Sagnol Provence Rosé, Provence, France ($7)
Peachy keen, this tarte Rosé lives up to the reputation of it’s birth place, and doesn’t disappointment. With peach and apricot flavors, it’s delicious, with a delicious print point — and wins the award for the most beautiful bottle!
What pairs best with a glass of Rosé? Our very own Rosé-inspired, sparkling mermaid beauty, “Rosabelle.” Part of our new Pearl by Lauren Elaine collection, this fit-and-flare showstopper features a deep V illusion neckline, exquisite rosé hued (or ivory!) rose floral pattern sequin detailing, and dramatic 8ft cathedral tulle train! View her full look book below, and shop “Rosabelle” here!
