Clif Family Rose’ of Granache 2017 ($26)

In most regions of North America, the weather is beginning to cool, and fall temperatures will be here very soon. Before you hunker down for months of soups and stews, grab this perfect Rose’ made by Clif Family (you know them from their nutritional Clif Bars).

In the split second between the glass being raised and the wine being tasted, the brilliance of this gem from Mendocino hits. An ocean-like salinity is the captivating prelude to the wine which yields flavors of strawberry, lemon rind, rosemary and bay leaf.

This unexpectedly complex collection of flavors means that this rose’ can be an afternoon aperitif or a mate to a weeknight dinner of salad and seared salmon.

Or better yet, get out of the house while you still can and find a festival to celebrate the changing season with some good friends.

While it’s not too late to drink this wine, the supply disappears quickly ever year. You may be able to find it tucked away at your local wine shop. If not, be sure to look out for next year’s vintage in the early summer months.

Cheers!