Louis Laurent 2014 Rose D'Anjou

I like roses as a rule and am always up for trying new ones. French roses are especially versatile and food friendly. This Laurent is from France’s western Loire Valley.

The nose starts with strawberries, and I get a whiff of spice (cinnamon.) This is Cabernet Franc, and the first taste is a little tart, but there are the strawberries, then pear to white peach, a little cinnamon that finishes to a taste of hazelnut. It’s really quite nice and is off-sweet with a light, dry finish.

I would pair this with pork (barbequed or grilled, chops or roast;) charcuterie; salmon, especially with a fruit salsa; creamy plain cheesecake.