Three End-of-Summer Rosés That Fit Any Budget

A sultry August evening in Maryland demands a cold, attractive glass of rosé, the quintessential wine of summer. They come in varying hues and styles and can range from dirt cheap to pretty expensive. We’ve gathered three examples that cover the price spread, with an emphasis on dry versions for maximum refreshment. Find the one that fits your budget, kick back, and enjoy the sunset.

Quinta de Raza Vinho Verde Rosé 2020
($11, Free Run Wine Merchants)

Light, fruity, dry but with a hint of spritz, this delightfully delicate Portuguese offering may be the official patio wine of 2021—easy to enjoy by itself, but also prepared to tackle a burger or a bushel of crabs. This one is at its best when well chilled, so stick it in the freezer 30 minutes before you need it or plunge it into the beer chest with all that ice. The price is right too, so you might want to take home more than one, just in case a rosé emergency breaks out.

Stolpman Rosé “Love You Bunches” 2020
($20, Winebow)

Pete Stolpman makes intriguing and delicious California wines from varieties like Grenache, Syrah, and Roussanne. His take on rosé is made from Grenache sourced from throughout the Central Coast of California. A process known as carbonic maceration helps preserve the wine’s primary fruit character. It’s super lively and juicy, bursting with notes of strawberry and melon. This bone-dry example sports an electric finish that craves salt; think prosciutto wrapped melon, a hunk of Manchego cheese, and crusty bread.

Domaine Tempier Bandol Rosé 2020
($50, Prestige L’Adroit)

The Provençal region of Bandol makes one of the most serious examples of rosé in the world. Don’t be shy if you find one that is one or two vintages old—in this case, absolute freshness isn’t always the most desirable. Iconic Bandol producer Domaine Tempier crafts theirs from the Mourvedre grape, and it is a richer, paler, more serious rosé that really demands food. It works best with Mediterranean fare like bouillabaisse, tomato salad, or gazpacho.