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Domaine de Cala 2019 Rosé Classic Coteaux Varois en Provence 12.5% $17
Joachim Splichal collaborated with his sons, Nicolas and Stéphane, and the winemaking team of rosé specialist Bruno Tringali to craft the fourth vintage of this estate-grown and decidedly Provençal pink. It is a highly inviting and complex blend of Grenache 48%, Cinsault 35%, Rolle (a.k.a. Vermentino) 6%, Syrah 5%, Carignan 4% and Grenache Blanc 2%. 

Were the lighting just right, you could be forgiven for thinking the 2019 Domaine de Cala Rosé was a white wine. It is such a strikingly pale rosé! But, though it looks demure in the glass, plenty of personality comes through on the nose. In fact, the fresh, pure aromas are pretty rambunctious; they're a surprising contrast to the restrained color. There's ripe strawberry, Rainier cherry and a hint of quince. These build on the palate, especially as the wine warms up. Interestingly, I find this rosé most attractive on the palate as it hovers around room temperature. The moderately lingering finish shows a pleasant dusting of fine tannins showered with minerally character. Between its dynamic palette of flavors and its exhilirating acidity, this is a very compelling, elegant rosé at an irresistably affordable price.
Drink: 2020-22